News From Harbron Home Improvements

With different textures, designs and materials - add interest to your outdoors. There's never been so much scope for creativity

 

Get creative with your paving - and give your outdoor space that really individual look.

Traditional paving offers a quick and easy solution to bring pathways, or maybe a patio, to your garden...but why just slap down those slabs without any thought?

With a bit of imagination and creative flair, there are many ways to create paving effects with a real difference.

So here are just a few of our ideas to get the neighbours raving about your paving!

 

Go circular…

Don’t be a square and go for a traditional paving look with all straight lines. Add some curves and circles to the design. A circular area also makes a great centerpiece to a garden space, maybe for that posh ornamental fountain or a dining area.

 

Who says one size fits all?

Create a really dynamic look for your paved area by mixing different sizes and shapes of stone, or even different colours. The options are endless and can have really dramatic results if you are feeling particularly bold!

 

Make a bold move…with a chessboard look!

We are not talking about using just two coloured slabs here either. How dull would that be? It’s got dated 70s patio design written all over it. No, it’s time to get adventurous by not just mixing colours, but materials too. How about combining paving slabs with turf squares? Overlay your existing garden with spaced, square slabs to get the desired effect.

You could even opt for a combination of slabs and artificial grass for that really contemporary look and what’s more, the maintenance will be minimal. No more weeding, mowing or sowing. All your artificial grass and paving slabs will need is a good power wash once in a while.

Don’t forget, there’s no reason why you can’t use your chessboard area for playing chess either. Garden chess pieces of all sizes are available to buy and it will mean great entertainment for adults and children alike on those long hot summer evenings.

 

Go mosaic!

Yes, go for broke with that amazing fractured look you get from mosaic patterning. Combine different colours, styles and design to create a stunning effect that’s utterly unique. It will feel like you have transported your garden back to Ancient Rome – giving you a great excuse to invite the neighbours round for a toga party or some gladiatorial combat fun and games for the kids.

Go a bit crazy too, because the crazier the paving, the better it can look   

 

 

A recycled solution

Who says paving slabs need to be in one piece? One person’s broken slabs are another’s paved oasis. That’s right, you can create a really individual look using bits and pieces of broken slabs. Sound crazy, well it is. In fact, it’s the craziest of crazy paving ideas.

If you think about it, it’s a mosaic, but the pieces are just a bit bigger. Try it. We think you will amazed and delighted with the results and by recycling, you have done your bit for the environment too!

 

What about the resin option?       

Not everyone is keen on the traditional paved look for patios, paths and walkways though.

If you are looking for a completely different finish for your outdoor transformation project, here at Harbron Home Improvements there is another choice – the resin bound surface.

From driveways to pathways, patios to pool surrounds, steps to wheelchair ramps – Harbron is the South West’s leading resin surface specialist.

 

Types of resin solutions

There are basically two types of resin surface, the resin bound or the resin bonded surface. The difference between the two is that the resin bound surface is porous with a smoother finish and no loose stones, while the resin bonded surface is non-porous with a finished appearance of loose gravel. 

 

A resin patio is a fantastic alternative to paving slabs.

Whatever the design, our resin specialists can create an amazing patio space – adding value, as well as enjoyment, to your home.

If you want to breathe new life into tired paved paths and walkways, then consider the resin option. Resin is versatile and our skilled installation team can install steps and/or ramps that perfectly complement your property, as well as being a practical solution.

There’s a while array of colour choices too – and you can personalise your space with different patterns and motifs You can even add company logos for promotional purposes. Use lighter or stronger colours to create the illusion of space, making your resin drive or patio appear bigger. You can even use colours to divide areas into zones, saving on signage.

Tough and durable, resin is also stain resistant and easy to clean and requires minimal maintenance.

 

Maintenance is even easier – with Harbron’s aftercare service.

With a 10 year guarantee and product warranty on all our resin solutions, you can see why it is such a premium product and one we completely trust in.

But if you don’t have the time to keep your surface looking its best, then choose one of our comprehensive and competitively priced maintenance packages.

Our highly knowledgeable and experienced resin team offer the full range of cleaning and care solutions – whether it’s a brand new installation by us or an existing surface.

Maintenance Packages cover:

• Tough exterior coatings for long term protection
• Pressure washing
• Patio and Driveway Cleaning
• Decking sealing
• Roof cleaning
• Patch and small areas repairs

 

Keep your prized resin surface looking its very best for years to come, with the professional and dedicated support of one of the region’s leading resin installers…Harbron Home Improvements.

 Our resin products offer the ultimate in quality and come from one of the UK’s major resin bound suppliers and specialists in resin bonding surfacing.

We only use products that have been carefully sourced and are the premier solution for both successful resin bound and resin bonded installations.  

What is most important in any installation is the quality of the resin bound materials used. Our suppliers have spent many hours carrying out research and development to deliver a resin which it says ‘excels in performance, strength and durability’. 

Such is their confidence in the performance of this high quality resin solution, they offer a lifetime colour lock guarantee

 

 

 

        

 

 

 

Harbron Home Improvements has been accepted into a Government backed scheme with a mark of excellence that represents trust and integrity in the construction industry.

The outdoor transformation specialist, based in Newton Abbot, is now a registered business with TrustMark, that gives consumers added confidence in businesses and tradespeople.

When customers choose a Trustmark registered business, they know it is committed to delivering what the organisation describes as the three cornerstones of quality – technical competence, good customer service and good trading practices.

James Harbron, Managing Director of the Harbron Group, said it was a significant achievement for the business and all the staff.

“We have always been committed to the highest levels of customer service and professionalism - and the addition of TrustMark will give our clients even greater peace of mind,” said James.

“TrustMark champions those businesses that always play by the rules and that is a principle we have been 100 per cent committed to ever since the Harbron name was first established.”

A ‘not for profit’ social enterprise, TrustMark was set up in 2005 as part of a Government initiative, working alongside industry bodies and consumer groups.

The TrustMark scheme focuses on customer protection and ensures every consumer can be comfortable with, and confident of, the traders who are part of a network of approved scheme providers.

All members of TrustMark face a rigorous vetting and approvals procedure, and the scheme also works with Trading Standards to give added protection to both consumers and businesses who may have been affected by rogue traders.

Meanwhile, Harbron is also in the process of applying for Trading Standards Buy With Confidence approval to further bolster its reputation as a business with professional quality, trust and integrity at the heart of its ethos.

The scheme is a partnership of local authority trading standards services to help consumers identify businesses that are committed to trading fairly - and also to help root out the industry rogues.

Harbron will again go through a vetting procedure and, once a part of the scheme, will also be subject to future checks to ensure it always meets its strict requirements.  

“Several clients have come to us to put right shoddy work done by disreputable traders and it’s schemes like these that give customers that all important protection from being, quite simply, ripped off,” added James.

     

Helping you to transform your outdoor space into the perfect summer garden with our borders, driveways, landscaping and decking inspiration.

 

Are you thinking about breathing new life into your garden this summer, a burning ambition to create your own piece of heaven in which to while away those (hopefully) long hot days.

Here Harbron, we firmly believe that the perfect summer garden isn’t just about lush lawns and a kaleidoscope of colourful blooms, although clearly, they have a part to play.

It is also about creating a space where you can relax and entertain, hold barbeques, summer parties, games on the lawn – the kind of things that are equally important to create – great memories!

But before we get to that, let’s see if we can help you with some really eye effective planting, so you have something beautiful to look at all summer long.

Perhaps the most important thing to beat in mind is that some of the best looking gardens have contrasts, a way of creating something different everywhere you look. So think about how you can separate spaces with hedges and bushes of differing heights, as well as planting borers of riotous colour. It will often create the illusion that your garden is bigger than it actually is!

We know what you’re thinking. Isn’t it a bit late to plant for summer, now we are in August? That’s true, which is partly why we wanted to talk to you about our vision of the perfect summer garden using some of the products and services we supply.

But there’s no reason why you can’t start to plan for next year, particularly as you will have a number of jobs to do next Spring if you want to get that blooming wonderful summer look!

 

What plants to choose?

 

Mixing colours is really effective, so think lavender mauves with poppy reds and combine different rose species too for the wonderful fragrant smells, as well as appearance. Summer should be time of abundance, as well as colour, so plant your flowers close together.

Frame drab looking driveways with colorful flower borders too and keep the planting low height to accentuate the size of your front garden space, as well as the rear.

Don’t forget to add in some mulch as a weed deterrent and find a space to start your own compost mound, maybe under a bush or tree, to hide it better from general view.

If you are new to gardening, don’t be daunted by the tasks ahead. There’s plenty of help out there too. Staff at your local garden centre will be more than happy to guide you on which plants works best together and what you need to bear in mind when it comes to planting.

Ask about summer blub packs too. Many garden centres and nurseries will combine bulbs of plants species that complement each other that you can get in the ground earlier in the Spring and will flower right through the summer months.

There are plenty of videos offering gardening tips online too and look out for the popular garden shows on TV so you can learn from the experts.

Make space for entertaining

 

With all these lovely blooms, you will want to make sure you can show them off to your family and friends while enjoying a drink and bite to eat in your wonderful summer garden.

So when you are planning your entertainment area, think carefully about which location gives the best view of all your green-fingered hard work. Next job is to work out what look you want to go for. Are you more traditional? In that case, you may prefer using timber to create decked seating area, complementing it with wooden planters and/or steps and paths.

Maybe you live in a more modern property or just like the way more contemporary products and solutions contrast with the greenery and colourful flowers in a typical summer garden.

Whatever your personal choice, here at Harbron Home Improvements, we have a complete range of solutions that will transform your outdoor space into the summer garden you have always dreamed of.

 

Timber or Composite Decking  

Whether it’s softwood, hardwood or the very latest composite boards, including the amazing Millboard range, with a lifetime guarantee – Harbron Home Improvements has the high quality decking solution.

If you are looking to create that stunning outdoor space in which to relax and party, decking a recognised alternative to paving and can add a new dimension to muddy and worn grass areas.

We have a comprehensive range of styles and finishes, as well as additional product solutions to really personalise your summer garden space – such as balustrades, post rails, steps, lighting and other accessories.

 

 

Resin surfaces       

Harbron is the home of resin solutions for creating tough and durable patio areas. If you want something different to the usual decking or paved patio look, resin is the modern alternative that sets new standards in quality and longevity.

Again, there’s a whole range of colour choices and our resin surfaces aren’t just confined to patios. We are one of the region’s leading specialists for resin driveways, paths, steps, balconies, ramps and pool surrounds.

 A resin patio is a fantastic alternative to that paved look - and you can even personalise your resin surface by mixing patterns and motifs. There is even the option to add branding and/or logos to the surface too.

Low maintenance, yet incredibly tough and hardwearing, resin can create a really unique look to your summer garden space – a look that is as individual as you are.  

 

Artificial grass

 

You might be surprised to learn that quite a number of our clients have created seating/patio areas using the very latest artificial grass solutions from Harbron.

But without the mess or mud you get from traditional turf, artificial grass is an extremely viable base for a seating area with a real difference!

All our artificial grass products are made from high quality synthetic fibre, dyed and cut to various lengths. There are styles and to suit all tastes and budgets.

Whatever look you are seeking, our Harbron Super Six artificial grass range starts at the 8mm Pine Valley and goes up to the 38mm Augusta.

There’s no more mowing, weeding or seeding with artificial grass – and it’s both child pet friendly too. It only needs an occasional power wash, to keep it looking its best, making it an ideal solution for a low maintenance seating area.

After, all you want to be spending your time entertaining…not maintaining!

It maybe holiday time, but there’s no chance of a break for Harbron Home Improvements as they gear up for a busy period helping clients landscaping dreams come true.

‘School’s out – so get us in!’ is the message as the outdoor transformation team are ready to breathe new life into tired gardens with Harbron’s range of artificial grass, decking services…and much more.

There are all kinds of landscaping options to make your outdoor space the envy of your neighbours – and the place to be, particularly for those enjoying a ‘staycation’ this summer.

You can keep the kid’s happy, and safe from injury, by using artificial grass solutions in their garden play area to protect them from falls. Meanwhile, create the perfect entertainment area with timber or modern composite decking products to keep the adults happy too!

Harbron’s artificial grass comes in a range of lengths, with a ten year guarantee on both products and labour. There’s no more mowing, seeding or weeding – and its UV protected against colour fade.

For decking, Harbron offer a range of soft and hardwood products for those seeking a traditional look, as well as the modern, and highly popular, composite deck boards for that more contemporary finish.

The company has both budget ranges of composite deck, as well as the very latest products, such as Millboard, which is setting new standards for quality and durability.  

Throughout August, Harbron will be using its social media platforms to put the spotlight on its decking and artificial grass services, as well as its other landscaping solutions, all designed to deliver stunning results.      

By using Harbron Home Improvements, customers have the advantage of choosing one trusted, and highly reputable contractor that can deliver the total project solution - across Devon and Cornwall, as well as Somerset and Dorset.

As well as its range of artificial grass and decking products, Harbron also offer complete resin bound solutions for driveways, pool surrounds, patios, paths and walkways.

Outdoor transformations like those often featured on two popular home and garden TV shows are helping to raise the profile of resin surfaces, one of the key services of Harbron Home Improvements.

Renovate Don’t Relocate, with leading property expert Sarah Beeny, has used resin finishes in the past, as part of her new layouts and design ideas helping homeowners give a new lease of life to their existing properties, rather than move.

Resin surfaces have also featured in another hit lifestyle programme, Love Your Garden with Alan Titchmarsh, the popular horticulturist, who travels around the UK with his makeover team, transforming gardens.

Just last week, one of the company’s resin steps projects at the entrance to the Devon Bay Hotel in Ilfracombe was on Channel 5’s popular show The Hotel Inspector (July 11).

The company’s team of resin specialists transformed the existing tiled clad steps with a contemporary, resin bound replacement, using their Golden Beach colour

But is not just resin driveways, walkways and paths, patios, swimming pool surrounds, balconies and wheelchair ramps that Harbron offer.

TV lifestyle programmes often show outdoor projects that feature another two key elements of Harbron’s portfolio of services – decking and artificial grass.

The company, which is an established and respected specialist for outdoor transformations across Devon and Cornwall, Somerset and Devon, offers the complete range of artificial grass products, as well as maintenance and aftercare packages.

They also have a wide selection of both timber and modern composite decking solutions, as well as fencing and other landscaping options.  

Find out more about all Harbron Home Improvements outdoor transformation solutions at www.hhigroup.co.uk

Harbron Home Improvements’ highly regarded range of resin surface solutions was in the TV spotlight last night (July 11) on Channel 5’s popular show The Hotel Inspector.

Presenter Olga Polizzi visited the Devon Bay Hotel in Ilfracombe where viewers watched, as she tried to help a couple inexperienced in hospitality, cope with a potentially busy summer season.

But the viewers will also have seen another prime example of Harbron’s expertise at the hotel – it’s stunning resin steps!

The company’s team of resin specialists replaced the old, tile clad steps with a contemporary, and more stylish, resin bound finish in the Golden Beach colour range, transforming the hotel entrance.

Harbron Group Managing Director James Harbron said he was very proud to see the quality of the finish and praised the installation team for their highly professional work.

“The old tiled steps were badly in need of replacing and the resin bound look is really classy. It is also a much more practical, as well as durable alternative, as hotel steps like that will get a lot of use in years to come,” said James.

Watch the show now via this link:  https://www.my5.tv/the-hotel-inspector/season-15/episode-5   

Harbron Home Improvements has a reputation as one of the South West’s leading resin specialists - and it is finish that has a whole host of other applications, not just steps.

 

The company offers high quality and durable resin products for driveways, walkways and paths, as well as patios, swimming pool surrounds, balconies and wheelchair ramps.

Resin is a much stronger and tougher finish than traditional gravel, tarmac and block paving. It is ten times more durable than tarmac and with the right aftercare, can last 25 years plus.

The porous nature of the resin bound surface also means there’s no puddles or pooling of water either.

What’s more, it’s stain resistant, non-slip and with its UV protection, won’t fade or discolour over time. Maintenance is simple too, with just a regular quick jet wash needed to keep It looking its best.

When it comes to colour and design, the choice is only really restricted by the scope of your imagination.

There is an extensive palette of colours, as well as combinations available and you can even personalise your project with unique patterns, motifs – and even company/personal logos.

 

Find out more about all Harbron Home Improvements outdoor transformation solutions at www.hhigroup.co.uk/resin

What are the different types of materials – and what is best in particular conditions?

 

Decking is now recognized as the most common alternative to the use of traditional patio/seating area products, such as paving slabs.

Timber decks, and the more modern composite solutions are the favoured choice for those looking to create the perfect garden space for entertaining and spending time as a family.

But what are the best decking materials – and which work best in certain conditions?

Well, like any outdoor improvement scheme you want to bring to your garden, it’s got to be something you want. There is little point in choosing a product that may have better qualities if you don’t actually like the look it creates.

At the end of the day, you have got to have something that fits in perfectly with your tastes…never compromise the need for individual choice!

There are other factors you will want to consider too. You will probably be working to budget and also looking for something that has longevity. We all lead busy lives too, so ease of maintenance maybe key to your final choice too.

Don’t rush into a decision. Take some to weigh up the positives and negatives of each product. It is good idea to sit down with a piece of paper and, for each decking product, write down the plusses and the minuses of each. It could really help you make your final decisions.

Get the opinions of your friends too, well the ones with good taste! It is also a good idea to find out what the rest of your family like. The last thing you want to do is spend your hard earned money on a stunning new decking area, if you are the only person using it!!

So, let’s see how our two contemporary decking adversaries face off – and which is likely to come out on top.

 

The case for timber…

 

Let’s start with budget. Timber does offer a more cost effective solution over its composite and PVCu rival, but ultimately the actual cost will depend on what type of timber you want to use.

Unsurprisingly, while softwood products are cheaper, they aren’t as durable as hardwood.

Remember that maintenance factor too. Wood, by its very nature, needs looking after with regular treatment using stains, oils, preservatives. Hardwood is tougher, but it doesn’t matter what wood you opt for, completely neglect a timber deck and it will eventually rot and crack.

That means you may have another costly outlay for a new deck! With the right level of care, some timber deck solutions can last up to 25 years – and sometimes longer. It really depends if you have both the time, and the inclination, to maintain it.

 It should be said though that modern timber products are improving all the time to better compete with their contemporary composite rivals. Wood too, arguably, looks more natural in garden surroundings although there is an increasing number of composite products coming to market that look just like timber.

Timber also looks great when it’s used to create steps and/or walkways, as well as for a seating areas, as it blends in well and provides a great contrast to the rich greenery of lawn areas and foliage.

Wood decks do present a slip hazard too. To help combat this, pressure washing to remove algae can help, but too much washing can cause timber to deteriorate at a faster rate. There are also products on the market that can create a better grip to the surface, small inobtrusive aluminum inserts fitted into the deck.

 

The case for composite/PVCu…

 

If you want a tough, hardwearing decking solution that requires minimal maintenance, yet still has a life span of 20 to 30 years – and more, then composite could just be the product for you.

In this contest, it’s definitely the heavyweight contender, although hard wood products are punching in a similar category.

Composite won’t crack, rot or warp, has great non-slip properties and you won’t need to be reaching for the oils, stains and preservatives…ever. Just the occasional wash down will keep it looking great. No sanding, no sealing, the advantages just go on and on.

Boards also come in a range of colours and finishes, whereas with wood, you have to put plenty of hard work in if you want to change its colour!

The PVCu alternatives often come in cheaper than timber too, but don’t have the same visual appeal as timber. But as we have already indicated, there are many composite brand that look so much like timber, it is difficult to tell the difference unless you look close up.

Where the modern composite products perhaps work best, is in a more contemporary setting, but if it is the traditional look and feel you are seeking to achieve, then timber decking is probably the winner for you.

 

Millboard composite decking – is it in a class of its own?

 

Alongside more cost effective composite solutions, Harbron Home Improvements work with the Millboard range of composite products that have raised the bar for quality and durability.

But what makes the Millboard composite deck so good?

The main reason lies in the manufacturing technique. While extrusion techniques are used to form most composite boards, Millboard’s team of experts hand mould the deck from original timber. It retains the appearance of wood and can be hand coloured at the same time.

The materials used in the construction are quite different to those that make up other composite products. Instead of a combination of wood fibres and plastic, Millboard uses mineral stone with a unique resin mineral.

There’s no rotting or warping, and the Millboard deck is also damp free. It also won’t fall victim to insect infestation either. What’ also perhaps surprising, is that despite its touch composition, the Millboard deck is also remarkable easy to cut, as well as shape. It doesn’t even require predrilling for fixings.

What’s more its environmentally friendly do, so you will be doing your bit for the plant is you choose Millboard composite decking boards.

 

Choose Harbron for Millboard composite – and other, more cost effective composite decking solutions.

The in-house decking installation team at Harbron Home Improvements has completed a specialist, advanced training course with Millboard – so you can trust in their knowledge and expertise if you choose this premium product for your decking project.

Find out more about composite and all our decking solutions at www.hhigroup.co.uk/decking

 

    

 

 

Here’s our overview of the laws relating to fencing - and what you need to be aware of concerning boundary issues.

 

Nothing drives a rift between neighbours more than a good old-fashioned boundary dispute – well maybe all-night raves, if you are really unlucky.

Location and height of fencing, walls or gates, and the problem of associated overgrowth of trees and hedge, can become a battleground, which is why there are certain laws in place in the UK.

Before you start, it is important to establish which boundary fence you are responsible for. It is usually the right hand side of your property, but it is a good idea to check the deeds, or the local authority should be able to help you with this information. 

Don’t forget the other really important rule when it comes to this issue though!

The best way to avoid falling foul of your neighbours is good communication, so before you even contemplate any changes to the boundaries you share, speak to them about what you intend to do.

Technically, you cannot even apply a coat of stain or preservative to your side of the fencing that is owned by your neighbor, without getting permission in writing from him or her.

Everybody needs good neighbours, so talk to them about exactly what you want to do. Who knows, they may even agree to share the cost of the work, if you get on really well!

 

So what are the main laws relating to boundaries?

Before we start, remember, we are not legal experts so if you end up in any type of dispute, it is important to seek the appropriate legal advice, but again, before you take any official action, speak to your neighbour to see if you can remedy the situation without resorting to a costly and acrimonious legal battle.

That should really be the very last resort…

Also, it is a good idea to be aware of any restrictions or covenants in place relating to any boundary changes you wish to make. Again, any information about this should be in the deeds of the property.

 

Do I need formal planning permission to erect fencing or other types of boundary markers?

 

• If fencing, walls or gates are above two metres in height, you will need planning permission to erect it. It doesn’t matter if the fence panels are below with trellis on the top. If that trellis takes the height to more than two metres, you must get local authority permission
• If you live in a listed property, or your home borders one, then you will need local authority permission to carry out any work on the boundary fence
• Where a proposed fence, gate or wall adjoins a public road, you must seek planning permission if that fencing is higher than one metre.
• Where the front of properties is open to the public paths and highways, there is likely to be restrictions in place for erecting any kind of fence, or indeed hedge, in this kind of location - so check with the local authority before doing any work

 

REMEMBER! If you have any doubts or concerns at all, don’t erect fencing or any other kind of boundary marker before checking with the relevant local authority official.

 

Types of fencing

 

So, you want to replace your tired, old wooden fencing and your neighbour is fully on board too…but which type to choose?

 

Fencing is still one of the most popular options for marking the boundary to your property at the rear. It is good quality, yet affordable solution.

 

 It is also good for security and to stop pets escaping. It tends to be more pleasing in appearance too.

 

There are three main types of fencing:

 

• Lap larch, with its horizontal, over lapping boards, it is one of the most popular fence solutions and particularly suitable for flat surfaces.
• Featherboard (also known as featheredge) is where the boards run vertically and makes for the ideal solution for sloping and uneven garden surfaces.
• Decorative fencing is also a very popular choice, combining sections of fence with trellis. With straight or curved lines, there are a whole host of sizes and attractive designs available.

 

Why choose fencing from Harbron Home Improvements?

 

Quality, affordable wooden fencing is a specialty of Harbron Home Improvements.

Many customers across Devon and Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset have already taken advantage of our flexible and cost effective service.

Whether it’s brand new panels or replacements for old/storm damaged fences, our skilled in-house team will meet your exact requirements. Removing your old fencing can also be arranged.

Pressure treated to extend their lifespan, we also offer an unrivalled 7- 25 year guarantee, depending on the wood grade you choose – and what a choice there is.

Lap larch fence panels, feather edge boards, decorative panels and trellis, we have a whole range of fencing types, as well as different designs, styles and colours.

Key benefits of Harbron fencing solutions:

• 7-25 year guarantee
• Full design, groundwork and installation
• Many sizes, wood grades and colours
• Ultra-resistant all-weather protected
• 100% in-house installers.

 

Enhance your fencing with a host of other landscaping products and services from Harbron Home Improvements

Harbron Home Improvements offers resin bound driveways, patios, pathways, steps, pool surrounds and balconies. Personalise your outdoor space too, with a range of colours and designs.

We also offer more traditional driveway/path surfaces in concrete, block paving, gravel and tarmac. For artificial grass, choose from a whole array of colour options – styles designed for all budgets, but don’t compromise on quality.     

But our services don’t end there. Choose Harbron Home Improvements for:

• Fencing
• Timber decking
• Glass Balustrades
• Landscaping
• Groundworks
• Driveway extensions/repairs.
• Property maintenance.

To find out more about all these services, visit our website at www.hhigroup.co.uk

Whatever the job, whatever the size, whatever the surface – Harbron Home Improvements is all about giving your property kerb appeal…and helping you to become the envy of your neighbours! We also offer a ten year guarantee on products and labour.

Are you #summerready?

The outdoor transformation teams from Harbron Home Improvements are - ready to make your summer landscaping dreams a reality.

When the sun shines, you want to be able to entertain in style and get the very best out of your garden space.

That’s where the experience and expertise of Harbron can really count.

It’s quite simply, all the landscaping solutions you need, delivered by one tried, tested and trusted contractor with a long-established reputation.

Harbron’s skilled and highly knowledgeable installation teams are gearing up for a busy July and August, helping customers to be the envy of their neighbours with this summer’s must have outdoor makeovers.

The company will also be using its own social media channels and online presence to really push its range of services.

But that’s not all…

The company will be sharing the transformation tips that will also help customers add value to their properties.

Look out for the posts that will be offering advice on the best kind of transformation projects to give your home the ‘wow factor’ – and make it more appealing to prospective buyers.

Harbron Home Improvements are established and respected specialists in garden transformation across Devon and Cornwall and into Somerset and Dorset.

Specialising in resin driveways and artificial grass, as well as the complete composite/timber decking and fencing solutions, the company is much sought after by both residential and commercial customers.

Why not choose the very latest composite decking products from a company at the cutting edge of these tough and durable garden products, Millboard.

Harbron’s installers are specially trained in fitting Millboard, which is even putting conventional composite products in the shade.

But don’t worry if budgets don’t stretch to these premium products. Harbron can also give customers access to more cost-effective composite products, as well as a variety of more traditional timber solutions.

Harbron is also the home of the very latest artificial grass products that are also setting new standards in quality and durability. Easy to install and offering low maintenance, artificial grass gives an amazing, stylish finish to any garden.

With the latest resin bound driveways, pathways, patios and pool surrounds, as well as more traditional paved, gravel, concrete and tarmac surfaces, Harbron has got all the outdoor transformation and landscaping services covered.

What’s more, all its products and services are backed up by powerful guarantees and warranties.

Beware the bogus landscapers – that’s the message from Harbron Home Improvements boss James Harbron to customers considering their own outdoor transformation project this summer.

 James has been alarmed by several reports of people claiming to represent his company in areas where his team has already carried out improvement schemes.

 He urged people to make sure they check the credentials of any caller who claims to be from Harbron to ensure they don’t become a possible victim of a shoddy and  unprofessional service.

 “We have established an excellent reputation for what we do and I wouldn’t want that tarnished by customers wrongly believing they are dealing with someone from our company,” said James, Managing Director of the Harbron Group.

 “All our staff carry identification and if anyone is in any doubt, they should call our main office number where someone will be able to confirm the identities and give them peace of mind.

 “It is also important that all customers remember to deal with the team leader on their project so they always have a trusted point of contact for any issues that may arise.”

 It is not the first time that James has had to urge customers to exercise caution when  they are looking to hire a landscaping or outdoor transformation company like Harbron Home Improvements.

A number of times recently, his company’s in-house installers have had to put right  shoddy workmanship carried out by other, so called, professional installers.

“Fortunately, the majority of companies who offer the services we do are very capable and reputable. It is only a few that don’t have the same abilities or integrity,” said James.

“For that reason, it is important that people take some time to look into the track record of a company they may be considering for their own project.”

James said that people should avoid those businesses that:

• Insist on full cash payment upfront
• Demand part cash payment up front without a written agreement
• Fail to produce any paperwork or refuse to sign a contract
• Refuse to give even a rough timescale for a project
• Don’t have a registered business address
• Don’t have basic contact details, mobile phone and/or landline, email
• Aren’t VAT registered
• Can’t provide written references.

 “Any reputable, professional builder will be more than happy to provide you with examples of previous work, but make sure you can go and view that work and speak to the customers involved, added James.

Swimming Pool Fencing – what are the rules and regulations?

 

A swimming pool fence is vital to keep your family safe. Here, we explore whether there are also any specific rules around the need for pool fencing.  

 

A swimming pool can be an amazing addition to any property If you can afford and outdoor pool, it is bound to afford you many hours of pleasure – as long as you get a bit of help from the good old English weather.

But an outdoor swimming pool isn’t just a potentially expensive purchase, it needs a lot of thought, with particular attention paid to the inherent risks it may pose to you and your family.

Young children, in particular, are at risk from any body of water, not just pools, but garden ponds or where rivers may run adjacent to property. That’s why you must do everything you can to protect them.

That’s why fencing is vital component of any outdoor pool project and you ignore it at your peril! A pool left completely open is an accident waiting to happen, and where small children and toddlers are concerned, that can have fatal consequences.

 

With outdoor pools - think safety first

Unlike a number of countries, such as Australia and USA, where there are laws around safety provision at private swimming pools, there are no similar laws or legislation in the UK. This shouldn’t make any difference though - fencing should still be a priority though. Your family’s safety may depend on it.

Fencing not only protects against accidents, fatal or otherwise, it will still enable you to supervise youngsters. Bow top railings or mesh fencing, which are recommended for, still afford good visibility even if you are some distance away.

Bow top railings are low maintenance and aren’t too intrusive. They offer a good level of security too, as they are difficult to climb over, especially if you are an inquisitive young child who has spotted the outdoor swimming pool and is momentarily out of sight of adults. Mesh fencing is a great deterrent for stopping anyone entering pool area unsupervised, as well as offering good visibility where supervision is required.

The fencing is there to do a job, but you want it to be aesthetically pleasing too. All you need is a four or five foot tall fence to ensure, not only safety but that the view isn’t spoiled either. It is possible to erect fencing that still fits in with the design and look of your garden, as well as ticking health and safety boxes.

You want your fencing to do the job it’s supposed to, so make sure you enlist the services of a professional fencing company or outdoor transformation specialist. They will have experience of a variety of pool fencing projects and can advise and recommend the best course of action and product for every setting.

Harbron can also offer customers a range of other affordable fencing solutions, such as wood, for privacy, security and to enhance the overall aesthetic qualities of your garden, or other outside space. Lap larch, featheredge boards, decorative panel or trellis, there is much to choose from- and all products are pressure treated with 7-25 year guarantees, depending on wood grades. 

You want your outdoor pool to be the ultimate dream addition to your property – not an accident nightmare so always think safety first.

 

 

 

Harbron is also the home of resin pool surrounds

Alongside fencing, another safety factor to consider is ensuring any pool surround you have is slip resistant, as well as non-abrasive. It is not just drowning that poses a risk around pools, serious injuries can be cause through slips and falls.

With its versatile and unique features, resin is now recognised as one of the leading products of choice for outdoors and indoor swimming pool surrounds.

Harbron Home Improvements is the recognised specialist in this field, across Devon and Cornwall; Somerset and Dorset.

Cost effective, with a life expectancy of 25 years if maintained properly, resin pool surrounds are fast to install too.  If the base is safe and structurally sound, resin can usually be laid to many existing surfaces without the need to excavate/or groundworks.

With its even surface with no loose stones. resin bound gravel stays cool too – even in direct sunlight. It’s comfortable and smooth, as well as low maintenance. 

It’s completely flexible as well. You can incorporate patterns, motifs – and even company logos into the design. You can even camouflage unsightly drains and filters with resin so they blend better with their surroundings. 

Harbron Home Improvements also has a 10 year guarantee on all its resin surface products, subject to certain terms and conditions. Harbron is also able to advise on aftercare and maintenance of its resin pool surrounds, as well as its range of other resin surface solutions – driveways. Patios, pathways, steps and balconies.

 

Staying safe in and around your outdoor pool

While pool fencing and the slip resistant qualities of resin will help keep your family safe, there are some simple, general tips to follow to ensure they are protected at all times.

Supervise your children while they are in the pool, never leaving them unattended and ensure they learn to swim from the earliest possible age. It is also important that adults are swimmers too. For non-swimmers and very young children always use appropriate life jackets or buoyancy aids.

Keep both children and adults away from drain pipes and fit anti-entrapment devices to combat the danger of getting trapped by the suction action, in and around drain pipes.

Adopt your own set of pool safety rules too and make sure everyone is not only aware of those rules, but they conform to them too. Such rules could include no access to the pool area or water without permission, as well as no diving, running or pushing as these all increase the potential for injury – or much worse.

Don’t allow any eating or drinking near or in the pool and ensure any adults who may have drunk too much alcohol don’t use the pool or supervise others using the pool, particularly children. Make sure there are no electronic devices allowed, either in the pool or the vicinity of the pool area.

 

  

  

  

 

 

  

Top tips for maintaining your driveway.

Why it’s crucial to keep your driveway in tip top condition – and how it could save you costly replacements in the long run.

 

The changing seasons each bring their own challenges when it comes to driveway maintenance, but it doesn’t take too much time or effort to look after it – whatever your surface of choice.

Resin bound, concrete, gravel, block paving – this our definitive guide to looking after your driveway, whatever the great British weather throws at it.

Like many things it life, with a bit of care and attention, it is possible to ensure your driveway lasts for many years to come and saving you the cost of having to replace it out of necessity, rather than choice.

What’s more, you might be surprised at how little effort it takes…

 

The advantages of resin driveway solutions

Talking of little effort. as the resin specialists in the South West, here at Harbron Home Improvements we believe it offers the most practical and durable driveway solution – with minimal maintenance required to keep it looking its best.

Resin has so many advantages over traditional driveway surfaces. For examples, as its permeable, you don’t have the issue of water pooling, which, in turn, greatly reduces the risk of ice when winter temperatures plunge.

All that durability and it only needs a little T and C. A regular sweep with a broom and hose down with clean water, job done!  You can use a pressure washer too, but just take care not to get too close to the surface and don’t direct the jet on one place for too long, use your washer in a sweeping motion.

If that still sounds too much like hard work, you can always call in our team of resin specialists to do the cleaning for you. We offer a range of aftercare/maintenance packages. You might be just too busy to dedicate the time to cleaning your driveway – so let Harbron do it for you.

 

Aftercare for resin driveways

Spring, summer autumn or winter – whatever the season it doesn’t take too much care and attention to ensure your resin driveway is well looked after. Here’s Harbron’s handy tips for resin driveway prevention…and cure.

Vehicle tyre marks can be hazard, but quick and easy to remove too, by lightly wiping with a damp rag and white spirit. Try to remember not to turn the steering wheel when your car is stationary as this increases the risks of tyre marks.

Don’t allow cement/plaster to set on resin as this makes it very difficult to remove. Take care not to spill harsh chemicals or liquids either. Oil and grease, for example, will stain a resin surface it not cleaned up straight away, while petrol and other harsh solvents can cause resin to soften.

Don’t drag heavy metal objects across the surface and if you need to use a skip, do not put it directly on the resin surface. Use wood to make a base and spread the load. Car jacks too can damage the surface so again, use wooden blocks to support the jack.

Weeds and miss should be a thing of the past when you have a resin surface installed, but if new ones do grow, use an appropriate weed killer, while moss can be removed quite easily using a stiff broom followed by a wash down.

These straight forward maintenance techniques should ensure that your resin driveway lasts – and looks its best for many years, but Harbron recommend seeking independent, specialist advice before using any particular cleaning product on a resin surface.

 

Alternative driveway surfaces

 

But what if resin isn’t your surface of choice? Well, again you might be surprised at how little effort is required to keep the more traditional driveway surfaces in tip top condition too.

 

Gravel

Gravel offers a great value for money driveway solution, but loose stone, by its very nature, needs looking after to look its absolute best! It’s not that time consuming though, but little and often is the key. 15 to 20 minutes each week should be enough time to clear any weeds followed by a good rake to distribute the stones more evenly. Make sure you also keep an eye out for any dips in the surface and/or potholes, filling them to make the whole surface more even again.

 

Tarmac/asphalt

Tarmac is another low maintenance option, but regular upkeep is required with a once a week hosing to get rid of any dirt and debris. You will need to check for any vehicle spillages too, as they can damage an asphalt/tarmac surfaces. Water may be enough to tackle most spills effectively, but some degreaser or detergent may be needed for more stubborn stains. Refill any holes or cracks too.

 

Brick/block paving

It’s the kind or surface that oozes kerb appeal, but you need to do a bit of work to make sure it is always looking its stunning best. Tackling the whole surface with weed killer once a week and clearing away dead greenery and any debris shouldn’t take much longer than 10-15 minutes – depending on the surface area of course. Once a month, use a yard brush to get any dirt out of the surface before washing it down with soap and hot water. Be careful if you use a power washer, as this could cause an issue where any blocks are loose.

Concrete

The main job for maintaining concrete driveways is not only cleaning, but sealing too. On average you should re-seal your concrete driveway every two years. It does depend though on usage. Heavy traffic areas may have to be sealed more regularly than that. You will find a range of sealants available from most hardware/DIY stores and application is straight forward. When it comes to cleaning, a pressure wash once a month should do the trick. Make sure you clear up spillages immediately too as they can cause a discolouration of a concrete surface. Again though, how often you will have to clean depends on usage and the kind of vehicles you park on your driveway. Heavy, agricultural machinery is likely to leave more dirt around than the family car, for example.

 

Maintenance solutions from Harbron Home Improvements

Don’t forget that if all this still sounds like too much effort, Harbron offer range of aftercare and maintenance solutions on products, such as our artificial grass ranges and resin solutions for driveways, patios, pathways, steps, pool surrounds and balconies.

Find out more at www.hhigroup.co.uk or call us on 01626323523.