News

Deck Building Guide for Massachusetts Homeowners There is nothing quite like a New England summer, and a new deck can completely change how you experience it. Suddenly, there is a place for summer dinners, weekend barbecues, morning coffee, watching the kids run around in the grass, and those evenings when you want to stay outside just a little longer. But before you start picking out decking colors or hauling lumber home, there is some planning to do. If this is your first deck project, knowing where to start can make the whole process feel much more manageable. We have put...

Choosing lumber can feel complicated when you are standing in a lumberyard looking at rows and rows of boards labeled with unfamiliar terms. Even if you thought you knew what you wanted when you went in, seeing all these new options can leave you second-guessing your choices. However, the right material is the foundation of a beautiful, long-lasting project. This lumber buying guide from Howe’s Lumber in East Brookfield, MA, will help you understand your options so you can build with confidence. Start With the Basics: Lumber Types One of the most common options you will see is dimensional lumber....

September is a great time to tackle home improvement projects before colder temperatures arrive. With comfortable fall weather and winter still a few months away, homeowners can use this time to complete exterior repairs, freshen up outdoor spaces, and take care of maintenance that could become more difficult once the weather turns. For DIYers and contractors alike, having access to the right tools can make these seasonal projects more manageable and efficient. Here are a few projects to consider adding to your September to-do list. 1. Refresh Your Deck or Patio After a summer of use, decks and patios may...

Wood decks, fences, pergolas, siding, and outdoor furniture add warmth and character to any property, but they also face constant exposure to sunlight, rain, humidity, and changing temperatures. Without proper protection, wood can fade, crack, warp, or absorb moisture that leads to premature deterioration. Choosing the right exterior wood stain or sealer helps preserve both the appearance and durability of your outdoor projects. Understanding the different types of finishes available makes it easier to select the best product for your specific application. Why Protect Exterior Wood? Unlike indoor wood surfaces, exterior wood is exposed to the elements every day. Ultraviolet...

When planning a home improvement or construction project, one of the first decisions you must make is where to source your building materials. While national big-box home improvement centers are a common default choice due to their heavy advertising, local lumber yards offer distinct, high-value advantages that big-box retailers simply cannot replicate. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or a homeowner embarking on a DIY renovation, choosing a local lumber yard is a strategic decision. Howe Lumber offers a guide that explores the key differences in product quality, customer service, cost-efficiency, and community impact to help you make an informed choice...