Step-by-step how-to guides, plain-English building advice and case studies from real projects we have supplied. Search, filter by category or difficulty, and find the resource that matches the job in front of you.
In-depth, structured walkthroughs for the jobs we get asked about most. Search by keyword or filter by category and difficulty.
Showing 12 of 12 guides
A practical guide to insulating a cold loft to current Building Regulations (270mm) — clear and prep the loft, lay the first layer between the joists, cross-lay the second layer over, and seal the hatch and eaves.
A practical guide to building a close-boarded timber fence panel that will outlast a dozen British winters — from setting out the line and digging post holes, to fixing the rails, featheredge boards and a gravel board.
A practical guide to fitting uPVC guttering — work out the fall, fix the brackets at the right spacing, cut and joint the gutter lengths, fit the downpipe and test for leaks.
Run a reliable cold-water supply from inside the house to an outside tap — isolation valve, drill through the wall, fit a self-cutting ferrule or through-wall fitting, and finish with a frost-protected tap.
A step-by-step guide to skimming a wall with finishing plaster, from wall prep and PVA through mixing, the scratch coat, the float coat and the final trowel.
A practical guide to tiling a bathroom or kitchen wall — work out the layout, fix the tiles with adhesive, cut around sockets and pipework, grout cleanly and seal the corners.
Plan, frame and finish a raised timber deck that will outlast the first ten winters — from setting out the post holes and pouring the post mix, to framing the joists and laying the boards.
Lay a flat, level, durable concrete base for a shed, greenhouse or hot tub — set out the dig, build the formwork, pour and finish the concrete, then leave it to cure properly.
A practical guide to choosing the right concrete mix for the job, calculating how much you need, and mixing it properly by hand or in a small mixer — without weak, crumbly or cracking concrete.
A practical guide to laying a clean, weather-resistant single-skin brick wall — from setting out the line and pouring the foundation, through the mortar mix, stretcher bond and pointing the joints.
How to lay a patio that drains properly, stays level year after year, and looks crisp from every angle — from setting out the fall, through sub-base, bedding sand and pointing.
How to build a clean, level block wall that will stand the test of time — from setting out, through the foundation, mortar mix and laying every course to a crisp brushed finish.
Practical articles for first-time homeowners, self-builders and trade customers. Browse the full library for search and category filters.
Builder warranties protect you if defects appear after completion. Understand what to expect, what to ask for and which warranties really matter.
Withholding payment is sometimes justified, but doing it the wrong way can weaken your position. Here is how to protect yourself legally and practically.
Some materials are worth saving on. Others will cost you far more if you choose the cheapest option. Here is where to invest.
Every project below was supplied by Star Hawk Builders Merchant — from foundation aggregates to the last fixing. Use the filters at the full index to explore by type, town or county.
A new-build show home in Bicester supplied by Star Hawk, on schedule and on budget, with every structural drop on our own delivery lorries.
A loft conversion with mansard in Staines-upon-Thames supplied by Star Hawk, on schedule and on budget, with every structural drop on our own delivery lorries.
A garage conversion to bedroom annex in Didcot supplied by Star Hawk, on schedule and on budget, with every small delivery on our own lorries.
Pull together a materials list and request a trade price in minutes. Most local deliveries are next-working-day.
