404 Not Found | https://www.crowesawmills.ie Mon, 21 Nov 2022 09:21:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/crowes-logo-v1-100x100.jpg 404 Not Found | https://www.crowesawmills.ie 32 32 How To Get The Perfect Christmas Tree https://www.crowesawmills.ie/how-to-get-the-perfect-christmas-tree/ Mon, 21 Nov 2022 09:18:52 +0000 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=260340 Christmas comes but once a year and picking out the perfect tree to jolly up the living room is a family ritual full of fun and promise. But with all the different types of trees out there, it’s hard to know which one is right for your holiday display.

Getting The Correct Tree

For the freshest and healthiest tree, you should visit an established tree farm or a lot that brings in trees from local farms. The ones that the farms sell are grown specifically to retain their needles.

Most Christmas trees are cut about 3 to 4 weeks before they arrive on the lot—usually the last weekend of November.

Once you’re perusing the lot, picking the right tree is like picking ripe mango: you should smell and touch it.

  1. Test the branches. Grab any branch on the tree between your thumb and forefinger, gently clamp down and pull towards yourself. If you end up with a handful of needles, the tree is already past its prime.
  2. Crush the needles in your hand and then check the scent. “If the tree doesn’t smell enough, don’t buy it,” says Roger.
  3. Bounce the tree by holding it a few inches above the ground and dropping it. If the exterior needles fall off, it’s a sure sign of a bad apple. Needles that fall off from the interior of the tree are normal.
  4. Make absolutely sure the tree’s trunk fits your stand. Trimming the diameter of the tree by cutting away the bark will strip the tree of its cambium layer, which absorbs water. If this happens your tree is a goner.

Know What Size You Want

The first step in choosing your perfect tree will be knowing what size you need. Trees come in all shapes and dimensions and what may look incredible in a shop might be too small, or even worse, too big for your house.

Measure the space that you’ve got available to get an idea of the maximum size you can buy and write the figures down on a piece of paper to take to the shop with you.

Top tip; take a measuring tape with you when shopping to be 100% sure that you’re making a good purchase.

Know Where You’re Going to Put It

Knowing exactly where you’re going to put the tree will help you decide which one will look the best in your space.

And, in addition to that, you don’t want to end up with branches that block out the TV from your favourite spot on the couch, so you have to think about the length and placement of the branches too.

Get a Good Stand

Every tree needs a stand and the bigger a tree is, the larger the stand should be. If you have pets or kids, it’s a good idea to buy one that’s particularly sturdy, as you don’t want to have any nasty accidents that are caused by a toppled tree.

Know What Type of Tree to Buy

There are lots of different kinds of trees to choose from and, if you’re not sure what you want, you may get overwhelmed by the options available and buy the wrong one on impulse.

It’s not necessary to become an expert on the different species of trees, but you should be aware of the specific type you need in terms of branch length and needle width etc.

For more information on picking the correct Christmas tree, this year take a look at our infographic below.

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Europe’s Must-See National Parks https://www.crowesawmills.ie/europes-must-see-national-parks/ Thu, 29 Sep 2022 11:18:51 +0000 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=260273 Do you enjoy nature, including woods, lakes, flowers, and fauna? Discover Europe’s most stunning national parks. Forget the crowds, the beaches, the cities, and the shopping, and come to unwind in Europe’s best national parks.

Triglav National Park – Slovenia

Triglav National Park is a site where visitors can explore ravines, river gorges, lakes, waterfalls, canyons, caves, meadows, and, of course, Mount Triglav. Mount Triglav is the national park’s highest point, although there is plenty of unspoiled wilderness.

The park has a wealth of natural beauty just waiting to be discovered. Aside from Mount Triglav, visitors should look into Lake Krn, the waterfalls of Savica and Pericnik, and the gorges of Tolmin and Vintgar. Furthermore, glaciers melt off and the resulting-coloured water form gorgeous blue-green rivers that meander across the valleys.

Sarek National Park – Sweden

Sarek National Park is an excellent location for trekking, hiking, and mountaineering. It is crucial to remember, however, that there are no marked paths; it is beneficial to hire a guide to help you explore. It is known affectionately as one of “Europe’s remaining true wilderness places.”

There are few options for lodging, and living is difficult. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions that could trap them in the woods. This is an adventurer’s national park, not one for the average hiker.

Gargano National Park – Italy

The Gargano National Park is one of the richest sites in terms of biodiversity, with numerous diverse and rare habitats (many of these are protected). Among the others are the coastline’s steep cliffs, beach woodlands, and dunes that encircle the lagoons of Lesina and Varano lakes.

Saxon Switzerland National Park – Germany

The Bastei Bridge in Saxon Switzerland National Park is a lovely scene in and of itself. It also provides visitors with one of the best vantage points for seeing the Saxon Switzerland area. The park is extraordinary for climbers because there are various climbing spots with over ten thousand different climbing routes.

Oulanka National Park – Finland

In the rugged landscape of the Karhunkierros Trail, you will observe the power of water. The varied route alternatives and hanging bridges of Oulanka National Park will take you to some of Finland’s most stunning waterfalls. Even experienced wildlife photographers will be challenged by the jumps of wild brown trout, dives of European dippers, the endless splendour of the aapa mires, and the exquisite calypso. The enormous wilderness of the Paanajärvi National Park may be located on the Russian side of the border, proving that nature knows no state boundaries.

Bialowieza National Park – Poland

The Biaowiea Forest World Heritage Site, located on the border between Poland and Belarus, is a vast tract of primary forest that includes both conifers and broadleaf trees and spans 141,885 hectares. This transboundary site, located on the watershed of the Baltic and Black Seas, is noteworthy for the opportunity it provides for biodiversity protection. It is home to the property’s largest population of the famed European bison.

Check out our infographic below which takes a look at why you should visit these national parks.

Europe’s Must-See National Parks ]]>
Sustainable Timber: A Practical Way to Preserve Natural Resources https://www.crowesawmills.ie/sustainable-timber-a-practical-way-to-preserve-natural-resources/ Tue, 02 Aug 2022 13:58:59 +0000 https://crowesawmills.ie/?p=260261 Timber, like many other scarce resources, is easy to take for granted. More than a third of the world’s population is dependent on the availability of lumber, but unless we embrace more environmentally friendly techniques, the resource’s long-term viability may be jeopardised.

The amazing thing about it, and something that many people are unaware of, is that lumber is a really sustainable resource. When a tree is cut down, all that is required to replace it is to plant a seed where the previous tree once stood.

Naturally, timber sustainability entails more than merely planting new trees. It also implies a duty to wildlife and human livelihoods in forest areas. If you reside in a city and a construction company decides to build a massive project next to you, you will almost surely be bothered. The same idea applies to those living in forest areas whose livelihoods are jeopardised by loggers’ continual presence.

Sustainable wood is incredibly practical and has a wide range of everyday applications, including household furniture, fence, and yard decking. We are often enticed by glittery sales from hardware stores when we could instead use sustainable, recycled, or reused lumber to construct tables, chairs, floors, and so on.

What Is The Most Sustainable Timber?

Timber is typically classed as either hardwood, which comes from broad-leaved trees like Beech and Oak, or softwood, which comes from conifers like Pine and Fir. Fast-growing species like Pine trees are more sustainable than slow-growing trees like Oak simply because they can be replaced. Oak forests must be carefully maintained in order to be sustainable, as well as developed and harvested in the proper manner, but it is possible.

How Can We Make Timber Sustainable

Always Request Certified Wood.

By purchasing certified timber, you are supporting forest management that replants trees as they are felled. It is now easier than ever to obtain sustainable timber and alternatives for non-certified timber.

Temporary Works Should Be Sourced Sustainably.

Many projects mention certified wood for construction but overlook the temporary works. If you make an attempt to source sustainable building materials, the same should be true for temporary construction materials.

To accomplish this, you may need to swap some timber products, such as plywood for Oriented Strand Board (OSB). Could you reuse these resources for the same purpose in your next work to make it even more sustainable?

Surplus Material Disposal

It is unavoidable to have leftover materials at the end of a job. If you can’t use these items on your next project, consider donating them to a local recycling centre. Timber sent to recycling programmes is either transformed into furniture or sold in its raw state. This reduces the amount of rubbish that goes to landfills.

Check out our By Products page for more information our sustainable practices for surplus materials.

For more information about sustainable timber check out our infographic below.

Sustainable Timber: A Practical Way to Preserve Natural Resources ]]>
Timber mortice 3 Rail Fence supplied & fitted in June 2022 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-mortice-3-rail-fence-supplied-fitted-in-june-2022/ Mon, 18 Jul 2022 09:45:30 +0000 https://crowesawmills.ie/?p=260238

Hi Alan 

Just a quick word of thanks for the excellent workmanship with regard to our garden fence. All went very smoothly, and I cannot speak highly enough of the skill and professionalism of Mel and Frank in installing it, including their very positive and helpful approach. 

Thanks..again..Tommy 

  • Timber mortice 3 Rail Fence supplied & fitted in April 2019

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Timber Shed: Care Guide https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-shed-care-guide/ Fri, 27 May 2022 10:22:46 +0000 https://crowesawmills.ie/?p=260174 If your wooden shed hasn’t been treated yet, it’s critical to do so right away—unless it’s already made of cedar or pressure-treated wood.

Regular maintenance (at least once a year) is critical when it comes to shed treatment. This will help to extend the life of the shed while also ensuring that your belongings are safely stored within.

The easiest approach to maintain the shed protected from all types of weather damage is to treat the external wood with a good quality wood stain or preserve.

How To Apply Treatment

How To Begin

If you’ve recently purchased a new shed constructed of untreated wood, you’ll want to treat it immediately with wood preservative and exterior oil, reapplying every year to ensure the wood’s longevity. To guarantee better coverage on each panel and a more consistent finish, we recommend treating the shed before you build it.

If your shed has been in your garden for more than a few months, make sure to clean it of any algae, fungi, or moss that has developed on it. If the wooden panels have been stained, painted, or lacquered before, you’ll need to sand them down to the bare wood.

Applying Wood Preservative

When you’re ready, use a brush to apply your chosen wood preserver, taking care to cover the full side of the panel that will be exposed. It’s best to apply two or three consistent coats at a time, waiting for each layer to dry completely before moving on to the next.

Exterior Wood Oil

After the wood preserver has dried, it’s a good idea to apply exterior oils to provide an extra layer of protection and weather resistance. Depending on how many applications you’ve applied, a wood preserver can take a day or two to properly dry, so make sure the surface is completely dry before proceeding.

Final Touches

If you want to paint your shed and add some colour to your garden, you’ll need to apply a wax- and silicone-free preserver. Specialist shed coatings are normally designed to last up to five years and provide UV protection to prevent the wood from greying and moisture damage from rain. Make sure you’re painting in dry weather, above 5°C.

Waterproofing

Shed waterproofing, in addition to treating the wood, is a terrific technique to give your panels a little extra protection. You should consider insulating your shed walls to prevent harmful moisture from accumulating. Fibreglass wool is a simple, low-cost solution, or breathable linings and membranes if you prefer something a little fancier.

For more information on how to care for a timber shed check out our infographic below.

To see our range of Timber Products click here!

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Timber Picket Fence https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-picket-fence/ Thu, 05 May 2022 09:04:25 +0000 https://crowesawmills.ie/?p=260171 Hi Alan

Just a quick note to thank you for your professional service in manufacturing and delivering the fence panels we required.  We put up the panels this weekend and my neighbour and I are very pleased with them. Just the job.

Best wishes,

Enda MacMahon

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4 Rail Mortice Fence https://www.crowesawmills.ie/4-rail-mortice-fence/ Thu, 05 May 2022 08:52:05 +0000 https://crowesawmills.ie/?p=260156 Posts are 1.8 120mm x 120mm Morticed Larch 

Rails are 4.8 120mm x 41mm

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Plan The Perfect Garden Party https://www.crowesawmills.ie/plan-the-perfect-garden-party/ Fri, 22 Apr 2022 10:54:10 +0000 https://crowesawmills.ie/?p=260148 With the summer approaching and the weather starting to pick up, it’s time to start thinking about holding garden parties. We have created an infographic that looks at planning the perfect garden party.

When it comes to planning the perfect garden party there are some tips which you should follow.

Bring the Indoors Out

Soft furnishings, candlesticks and even pictures and decorations can all be added to an outside space to make it feel like a room. Just be sure to bring everything in at the end of your party to protect it from rain, or invest in weatherproof pieces that can remain outdoors, making your alfresco room ready for use as soon as the sun comes out.

Create Different Zones

If you have room, create a seating area as well as space for tables and chairs, so that guests have a place to relax with a drink before settling down to lunch or supper. For those of us with small-scale outdoor spaces, a few floor cushions scattered in one part of the garden can achieve a similar feeling.

Prepare for the Evening

The best barbecues and garden parties go on right into the evening. String up some fairy lights and have candles in hurricane lamps or tea-light holders at the ready, to light when day turns to dusk. Then just put the kids to bed and sit back with a long drink.

Plan For All Weathers

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for all weather eventualities. A home with flowing indoor-outdoor space, like this house with its impressive glass box extension, is already well set up for quick dashes inside when it rains. An equally effective and more purse-friendly alternative is to put up a gazebo, perhaps with the barbecue positioned under it, so that any sudden showers won’t dampen the party.

Clear the Lawn

A patch of lawn is a lovely place for children to play before dinner and, if you spread out some rugs, works as additional seating for little ones, who are more at home on the ground. It also creates a safe space for them, away from the barbecue or any cooking areas.

Keep It Simple

While it is sometimes fun to go all out on your summer party decoration, it’s good to remember that the event is as much about the people as the presentation. So, marry style with simplicity when you set the table, leaving yourself time to enjoy your friends and family. A few candles, plenty of foldaway seating, a bunch of flowers and you’re ready to enjoy a relaxed summer party.

Check out our range of garden products here.

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Fencing Laws and Your Neighbours https://www.crowesawmills.ie/fencing-laws-and-your-neighbours/ Fri, 25 Mar 2022 10:22:45 +0000 https://crowesawmills.ie/?p=260124 Fencing is not just for display, although we all try to make it look nice! Fences provide good protection from passers-by, neighbours’ prying eyes, and they also serve as a barrier to keep stray and undesirable visitors such as dogs and cats off your property. Fences exist in a variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and materials, and many of them provide good weather protection for our homes. This form of shelter helps to safeguard our property structures and extend their life and are catered to a wide range of budgets.

Did you realise, however, that there are a few things to consider when it comes to your fence? There are many different laws when it comes to putting up a fence around your house so that there is no dispute between neighbours.

Any adjustments to the fence must be made by the fence’s owner, even if the other side of the fence is on neighbouring property. This means that if you build a fence in your backyard, your neighbour must get permission before painting or staining their side. Similarly, they are not allowed to grow trailing plants up it or engage in any other activity that could harm it.

As the owner, it is your responsibility to keep the fence in excellent shape and ensure that it is safe and does not pose a threat to others around.

Check out the infographic below where we take a deeper look into erecting a fence on the boundary of a property, from how the laws vary depending on the country, who is required to maintain the fence and how to resolve any disputes should they arise.

Check out our range of fences here.

Fencing Laws and Your Neighbours ]]>
Timber Stable supplied & fitted – work completed in Sept/Oct 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-stable-supplied-fitted-work-completed-in-sept-oct-2019/ Wed, 27 Nov 2019 15:11:45 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3735 Stable Barn 10.8m wide x 9.3m deep incorporating 2.1m Overhang. There are 2 No. Stables 4.2m x 3.6m to the right of the building and haybarn/store to the left of the building. Doors are 2.4m opening x 2.3m high. Larch cladding 150 x 22mm on the outside of building.
100mm x 44mm Studwork, 18mm OSB Board on internal walls to wallplate. Rafters 175 x 44mm with 75 x 44mm runners to corry brown boxprofile sheeting .55. The overhang is 2.1m wide running full length of the building. All timber Kiln Dried and Pressure Treated.

  • Timber Stable supplied & fitted – work completed in Sept/Oct 2019

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Timber Stable – work in progress – September 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-stable-work-in-progress-september-2019/ Fri, 11 Oct 2019 16:13:27 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3730 Work in progress on a timber stable. Further pictures to follow on completed work.

  • Timber Stable – work in progress – September 2019

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Timber Paddock Gate 3.6m fitted into Mortice Fence – August 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-paddock-gate-3-6m-fitted-into-mortice-fence-august-2019/ Fri, 11 Oct 2019 16:09:49 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3726 1 3.6m Paddock Gate incorporated into a 4 rail mortice fence. Gate hanging on 175mm x 175mm gateposts. All timber pressure treated.

  • Timber Paddock Gate 3.6m fitted into Mortice Fence – August 2019

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4 Rail Mortice Timber Fence supplied to customer in August 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/4-rail-mortice-timber-fence-supplied-to-customer-in-august-2019/ Fri, 11 Oct 2019 15:57:46 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3723 4 rail mortice fence using 2.4m x 145mm x 145mm Douglas Fir mortice posts with posthead design. Rails are 4.8m x 145mm x 41mm. All timber pressure treated.

  • 4 rail mortice

    4 Rail Mortice Timber Fence supplied to customer in August 2019

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2 Rail Mortice Timber Fence supplied in August 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/2-rail-mortice-timber-fence-supplied-in-august-2019/ Fri, 11 Oct 2019 15:32:43 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3715 2 Rail Mortice Fence using special top Larch Posts 120mm x 120mm and Larch Rails 145mm x 41mm PAO rails. All timber tanalised.

 

  • 2 rail mortice fence

    2 Rail Mortice Timber Fence supplied in August 2019

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Mortice fence with Kildare Timber Gates https://www.crowesawmills.ie/mortice-fence-with-kildare-timber-gates/ Fri, 27 Sep 2019 09:25:04 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3700 Incorporating mortice fence 1.8m x 145mm x 145mm Larch posthead posts and 4.8m x 145mm x 41mm rails with one pair of Kildare Gates hanging off 200mm x 200mm posts.

  • Mortice fence with Kildare Timber Gates

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Timber Kildare Gates supplied to customer in July 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-kildare-gates-supplied-to-customer-in-july-2019/ Fri, 27 Sep 2019 09:18:21 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3696 1 Pair of 1.8m Kildare Gates 1.2m high made from Swedish Redwood pressure treated timber using stainless steel bolts.

  • Timber Kildare Gates supplied to customer in July 2019

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Timber mortice fence supplied in July 2019 looking lovely https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-mortice-fence-supplied-in-july-2019-looking-lovely/ Fri, 27 Sep 2019 09:14:17 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3692 Mortice Fence using 1.8m x 145 x 145mm Larch posts with posthead design and 4.8m x 145mm x 41mm Rails, all fencing pressure treated

  • Timber mortice fence supplied in July 2019 looking lovely

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Timber Stable-3 x 3.6m boxes supplied & fitted for customer – June 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-stable-3-x-3-6m-boxes-supplied-fitted-for-customer-june-2019/ Fri, 27 Sep 2019 08:48:30 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3682 Timber Stable 3 x 3.6m boxes manufactured from Larch treated Cladding 150x22mm, Studwork 100x44mm, Rafters 125x44mm, slate grey corrigated steel sheeting, black PVC gutters front and rear. OSB 3/4″ fully lined internally to wallplate.

  • Timber Stable-3 x 3.6m boxes supplied & fitted for customer – June 2019

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“L” shaped Stable with Tackroom supplied & fitted in May 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/l-shaped-stable-with-tackroom-supplied-fitted-in-may-2019/ Thu, 26 Sep 2019 11:52:48 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3670  

“L” shaped Stable comprising of 3 x 4.2m x 4.2m Boxes. 1 Tackroom 3.6m x 5.7m and washroom area 3.6m x 3.3m open at the front. Larch cladding, slate grey corrigated sheeting, black pvc gutters, OSB board 3/4″ fully lined to wallplate. The Overhang is 1.5m wide at the front. Studwork 100×44, rafters 125×44. Height of building 2.7m to wallplate.
The second picture is showing the washroom area of Stable and how the overhang is finished, the washroom area is 3.6m x 3.3m, with additional area covered with overhang 2.1m x 4.8m

  • “L” shaped Stable with Tackroom supplied & fitted in May 2019

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Larch Log Benches supplied in April 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/larch-log-benches-supplied-in-april-2019/ Wed, 15 May 2019 14:56:22 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3634 Log Benches supplied to Rossmore Forest Park Monaghan. Made from Larch/Douglas Fir. Dimensions: 1.6m Long. Untreated, stained with clear Oil.

  • Larch Log Benches

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Timber mortice 3 Rail Fence supplied & fitted in April 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-mortice-3-rail-fence-supplied-fitted-in-april-2019/ Wed, 15 May 2019 14:16:07 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3632 3 Rail Mortice Fence fitted using Posts 1.8m x 145mm x 145mm Posthead Larch morticed & pressure treated. Rails 4.8m x 145mm x 41mm PAO pressure treated.

  • Timber mortice 3 Rail Fence supplied & fitted in April 2019

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Round Top Timber Panel Fence 1.8m High supplied to customer in April 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/round-top-timber-panel-fence-1-8m-high-supplied-to-customer-in-april-2019/ Wed, 15 May 2019 12:00:14 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3627 Round Top Panel Fence 1.8m High using 1.8m Roundtop Boards 145mm x 20mm. Rails 4.8m x 100mm x 44mm. Posts are 2.4m x 120mm x 120mm Larch Posthead. All pressure treated material.

  • Round top timber panel fence

    Round Top Timber Panel Fence 1.8m High supplied to customer in April 2019

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Paddock Timber Picket Gates supplied in April 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/paddock-timber-picket-gates/ Wed, 15 May 2019 11:49:48 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3624 1 Pair of 1.5m x 1.2m Tall Paddock Picket Gates, made from Swedish Redwood using stainless steel bolts and heavy duty galvanised fittings and latches.

  • Paddock Picket Gates, made from Swedish Redwood

    Paddock Timber Picket Gates supplied in April 2019

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Mortice Fence using 4 Rails supplied & fitted in March 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/mortice-fence-using-4-rails-supplied-fitted-in-march-2019/ Wed, 15 May 2019 11:37:30 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3620 4 rail mortice fence using Posts 1.8m x 145mm x 145mm Posthead morticed Larch pressure treated. Rails 4.8m x 145mm x 41 PAO pressure treated.

  • Mortice Fence using 4 Rails supplied & fitted in March 2019

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Timber Larch Pergola-materials purchased & erected by our customer in January 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-larch-pergola-materials-purchased-erected-by-our-customer/ Wed, 15 May 2019 11:21:27 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3614 Larch Pergola: Posts are 3.6m x 145mm x 145mm. Rafters 145mm x 41mm. Beams 225mm x 100. Customer stained the Larch timber with oil based product.

  • Timber Larch Pergola-materials purchased & erected by our customer in January 2019

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Timber Decking Maintenance & Treatment: How to Restore a Deck https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-deck-maintenance/ Fri, 05 Apr 2019 05:54:36 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3587  

The addition of timber decking to your garden can embellish its appearance wonderfully, but once it has been implemented, it needs to be monitored throughout the year so that it doesn’t lose its visual appeal, or indeed its robust quality. Here’s how you can maintain your decking over the course of the year so that it remains as good as new for a long time to come.

When and how to treat decking

Once the harshest of the winter weather has disappeared and spring is in full blossom, that’s the ideal time to begin maintaining your timber decking. The first major task is to wash and clear away any debris or grime that has accumulated during the winter and then begin sealing. This will prepare it for the main repair duties to be undertaken in summer, after which greenery next to or near the decking should be trimmed and gutters cleared over the autumn. With all those duties done, your decking will be in prime condition to withstand another winter.

Mid to Late Spring

Main duties: Washing & Sealing

  1. Remove debris from between the boards of your decking, using a putty knife.
  2. Protect any plants or shrubbery by soaking them and covering them with plastic sheeting.
  3. Sweep the decking thoroughly
  4. Cleanse the decking with a standard cleaner, complying with its directions. You may need to wet the decking first before applying the cleaner
  5. On a cool, cloudy day, clean the decking with a standard wood cleaner, complying with its directions. Use a paint roller, garden sprayer or stiff-bristled brush to apply the cleaner.
  6. Once the cleaner has soaked in, rinse the decking with clean water.
  7. Allow the decking to dry for at least 2 days before beginning sealing. You will need clear skies and moderate temperatures for the sealing to be effective.
  8. Sand the deck lightly with a pole sander.
  9. Carefully replace any missing or popped nails/screws.
  10. Apply the sealing with a roller, covering 3-4 boards at a time.

Midsummer

Main duties: Inspection & Repair

  1. Check for signs of rot by probing structural sections (e.g. steps, perimeter posts) with a flathead screwdriver, which should not be able to be pushed more than 6.5mm into the decking.
  2. Inspect the ledger (the framing which attaches the decking to the house) by shining a torch underneath the decking. It should be attached with lag screws as well as nails.
  3. Check all other joints, posts and beams. Also, ensure to look at hardware underneath the decking.
  4. Replace any cracked or damaged boards.
  5. Shake the railing vigorously to ensure that it isn’t loose or damaged. Add galvanised lag screws to any loose connections.
  6. If there are cracks around any fasteners such as nails or screws, remove the fastener and seal the crack with an exterior-grade adhesive before drilling a new pilot hole and adding a galvanised deck screw.

Autumn

Main duties: Trimming & Clearing

    1. Trim any bushes or trees near the decking. They should be at least 12 inches clear of the decking so that moss, mould and rot won’t develop.
    2. Clear away any debris or leaves which may have accumulated on the decking.
    3. Move any furniture such as tables or chairs so that the decking doesn’t become discoloured.
    4. Inspect any gutters or downspouts near the decking so that moss or debris hasn’t accumulated.
    5. Take care of any washing and sealing that you may not have got around to doing in spring. It needs to be done while temperatures are mild.


This video talks you through the washing and sealing process for your timber deck.

 

Why is decking treatment and maintenance so important?

As with many other products, timber decking looks immaculate initially but if it is not cleaned or maintained properly, it could quickly turn grotty and disenchanting. Indeed, it’s not just the appearance of the timber that’s likely to suffer, either. The quality of wood may well be affected if maintenance work is not carried out, as rot could set in and slowly eat away at the fine timber you once had. Here’s several reasons why you would be well advised to maintain your timber decking:

      • The timber can be affected by a degree of discolouration from moisture and adverse weather conditions.
      • Boards could become loose over time.
      • Boards that are loose or cracked could break if walked upon, which could potentially lead to an injury.
      • It is quite likely to accumulate dirt, grime and mould over time, which if left unremoved can harm the quality and longevity of the decking.
      • Aside from the timber becoming damaged, failure to maintain your decking regularly will also make it look grotty and spoil the entire appearance of what should be a pristine feature of your garden.

Restore a Deck

Tips on how to restore a deck

    • When applying deck cleaner, always wear protective goggles and mind your skin, as the cleaner could contain harsh chemicals.
    • If you use a power washer on the decking, don’t focus for too long on any spot or hold the nozzle close to the timber, as the pressure could damage the timber.
    • You can avail of a scrubber attachment for a pressure washer so that large areas can be covered more quickly.
    • If you want the timber grain to be clearly visible, buy a wood stain with a transparent application.
    • Remember to check all around the deck boards, including underneath, as this is where wood rot is most likely to occur.
    • Do not pound old nails down if they (or the boards) are loose. Remove the nails and replace them with longer alternatives or decking screws.
    • Use a putty knife or laminate scoring tool to remove debris from tight, narrow spaces such as those between deck boards.
    • If stripping a deck with a peeling finish, use a mild, biodegradable deck stripper and test it first on a small, inconspicuous area.
    • When treating stained or discoloured areas, choose your cleaning product carefully. Bleach-based products are effective for removing mildew, while acid-based products are more ideal for removing stains and discolouration.

  • Decking Treatment

    Timber Decking Maintenance & Treatment: How to Restore a Deck

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Flower Box – Looking good for Spring/Summer – purchased in February 2019 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/flower-box-looking-good-for-spring-summer-purchased-in-february-2019/ Wed, 20 Feb 2019 15:18:43 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3582 Flower Box 1.0m High x 400mm x 400mm square, made from Swedish Redwood pressure treated 150mm x 35mm. Posts are 70mm x 70mm. Order your Flower Box today, call our office on (071) 9631040

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Timber Paddock Gate supplied to happy customer in October 2018 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-paddock-gate-supplied-to-happy-customer-in-october-2018/ Mon, 26 Nov 2018 12:53:51 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3560 Timber paddock gate 4.2m with heavy bottom rail supplied to customber and we were delighted to get this lovely reply:
“Hello Alan,
Now that our business with you has concluded Gerry & I would like to thank you for an excellent transaction from start to finish.

We enjoyed swift and courteous communications. You produced the goods in the time frame you promised – much to the delight of the team who were completing our driveway. Our paddock gate is very well made and robust. It looks fantastic in situ (see picture & catching admiring glances from passing walkers already.
Should we need any further similar wood products you will be the first to know”.

  • Timber Paddock Gate supplied to happy customer in October 2018

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Timber Panel Fence using Concrete Posts-supplied in July 2018 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-panel-fence-using-concrete-posts-supplied-in-july-2018/ Mon, 26 Nov 2018 12:21:41 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3555 Concrete Posts were fitted by customer and timber was used as an infill – 1.8m x 145mm x 41mm PAO and Tanalised. Gap between each board is 45mm.

  • Timber Panel Fence using Concrete Posts-supplied in July 2018

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Timber Paddock Gates 3.0m fitted on to Special Top Posts https://www.crowesawmills.ie/3522-2/ Fri, 12 Oct 2018 11:42:47 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3522 1 pair 3.0m Paddock Gates fitted on to 2.4m x 175 x 175mm Special Top Posts. Gates are handcrafted from Swedish Redwood pressure treated and fixings are stainless steel bolts.

  • Timber Paddock Gates 3.0m fitted on to Special Top Posts

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Timber Paddock Gate 1.2m in height – supplied in August 2018 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-paddock-gate-1-2m-in-height-supplied-in-august-2018/ Fri, 12 Oct 2018 11:12:43 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3519 1.2m Paddock Gate fixed onto wooden Larch Special Top Post 2.4m x 175mm x 175mm. Gates come standard height 1.2m to highest point.

  • 1.2m Paddock Gate

    Timber Paddock Gate 1.2m in height – supplied in August 2018

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Timber Post & Rail Fence using Larch Special Top Posts – August 2018 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-post-rail-fence-using-larch-special-top-posts-august-2018/ Fri, 12 Oct 2018 10:59:18 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3515 Post & Rail Fence manufactured from 1.8m x 125mm x 125mm Larch Special top Posts and 4.8m 125mm x 41mm PAO Rails. All timber was pressure treated. Height to top rail approx. 1.050. Post centres are at 2.4m centres, and height to top of post is 1.2m, 600mm in the ground.

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    Timber Post & Rail Fence using Larch Special Top Posts – August 2018

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Pergola looking good – supplied in August 2018 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/pergola-looking-good-supplied-in-august-2018/ Fri, 12 Oct 2018 10:31:27 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3511 This Pergola was designed with 3.0m x 145mm x 145mm Posts, and 145 x 41mm Rafters at 400mm centres. Gallowboards were also fitted at 45 degrees on the corners. All timber was pressure treated and oiled by customer after being fitted.

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Timber Pergola supplied to customer in July 2018 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-pergola-supplied-to-customer-in-july-2018/ Fri, 12 Oct 2018 10:21:31 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3504 This Pergola was made from 3.0m x 145 x 145mm Posts, and 145 x 41mm Rafters. All timber was pressure treated when supplied. Rafters were fixed at 400mm centres. Gallowboards are fitted at 45 degrees at the corners of posts.

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New Storage Shed at Crowe’s Sawmills Ltd https://www.crowesawmills.ie/new-storage-shed-at-crowes-sawmills-ltd/ Fri, 23 Feb 2018 11:55:27 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3466 Our New Storage Shed at Crowe’s Sawmills.  All our timber For Sale is now being stored under roof.  Call for our best prices on Dried Tanalised Timber.  Phone (071) 9631040

  • New Storage Shed at Crowe’s Sawmills Ltd

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Mortice Fence sold to happy customer – 26th January 2018 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/mortice-fence-sold-to-happy-customer-january/ Tue, 30 Jan 2018 16:30:50 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3460 Alan and Eilish,

delivery received first thing this morning, thanks again for getting this organised and for the additional lengths. The timber looks great and we are looking forward to getting it installed.

Best regards,

Cathal

The above fence picture is the fence ordered & delivered to Cathal as seen on our website.

  • Mortice Fence sold to happy customer – 26th January 2018

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Happy customer sent lovely reply after his fence was delivered- January 2018 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/happy-customer-sent-lovely-reply-after-his-fence-was-delivered-january-2018/ Fri, 19 Jan 2018 12:51:43 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3456 Hi Alan, “I have a neatly packaged fence inside my front wall as of this afternoon – thanks for the quick turnaround”.

Regards, Mark.

Mark ordered a morticed fence using Larch Posts & D.Fir Rails similar to picture above.

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    Happy customer sent lovely reply after his fence was delivered- January 2018

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Photos from Minister Andrew Doyle’s visit to Crowe’s Sawmills Ltd, Mohill on Tuesday 7th November 2017 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/photos-from-minister-andrew-doyles-visit-to-crowes-sawmills-ltd-mohill-on-tuesday-7th-november-2017/ Tue, 14 Nov 2017 14:49:25 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3447 228A8171228A8236228A8485228A8446Ministerial visit to Crowe’s Sawmills Ltd, Mohill on Tuesday 7th November 2017.

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Posthead Larch Timber Posts & Rails – supplied & fitted in May 2017 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/posthead-larch-timber-posts-rails-supplied-fitted-in-may-2017/ Wed, 14 Jun 2017 11:55:41 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3431 This 2 Rail mortice fence using Larch Posthead Posts 1.8m x 150mm x 150mm and Rails 4.8m x 150mm x 41mm.  Pressure Treated and PAO.

  • Posthead Larch Timber Posts & Rails – supplied & fitted in May 2017

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Timber Stable Complex supplied and fitted – April 2017 https://www.crowesawmills.ie/timber-stable-complex-supplied-and-fitted-april-2017/ Thu, 11 May 2017 14:31:18 +0000 http://www.crowesawmills.ie/?p=3422 IMG_0736Stable complex comprising of 3 No. 3.6m x 3.6m boxes and a tackroom 3.6m x 3.6m with double doors, cladded in Larch timber 145 x 20mm. Studwork 100 x 44mm pressure treated and rafters 125 x 44mm and sheeted inside with 1/2″ plywood. Overhang 1.5m wide with Larch support posts & gallowboards.

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