I’ve been working inside the office of Southgate Timber for 6 months now and I can honestly say I know more about timber than I do my own wardrobe. Ask me anything – How to treat the timber? I can tell you exactly how and when. How many planks of wood you’ll need? I can calculate that for you (despite my terrible maths). Where the timber comes from, what grade it is, what colour? I’m your girl. Its crazy how much you can learn in such a short period of time, but I guess that’s what happens when you’re taught by those with years of experience and enough knowledge to last them a lifetime.

I’ve been soaking up information like a sponge since the day I arrived here. One of my duties to begin with, was to send out the sample orders. To me, timber was just timber. I had no clue what Yellow Balau or Ipe was. I was completely oblivious to what sample was what and other staff members were constantly having to grab the samples and label them for me. I felt so useless at first, but every time they labelled the samples, they explained to me exactly how they could tell the difference between the timbers. After just a few days, I no longer needed their help. I knew that Cedar has a redder tone than Larch and that Larch is heavier. I knew the differences between Ipe, Yellow Balau, and Iroko decking. But this was just the beginning of my journey to knowledge as I continue to learn more and more every day.

We have customers calling throughout the day with all sorts of queries. At first, I refrained from answering the phones in fear I might relay the wrong information. But it was easy to learn after observing my colleagues, I swear these lot have all the answers, particularly Malcolm and Lizzy, they really know their stuff. They can advise all the equipment you’ll require to fit the timber and exactly how to fit it with step-by-step instructions. I’ve learnt all about the different products you can use to treat the timber and how to use them. I know you must allow the timber to weather-in before treating and how to revive old timber that has greyed. I understand the importance of using stainless steel nails because galvanized nails react with timber creating black streaks. All of this information was alien to me before I worked here and a lot of it may be alien to you too. If you’re new to purchasing timber and you’re not entirely sure what you require, its ok. We’re all human here and we had to learn this stuff too once. The staff at Southgate Timber are more than happy to help you get it right and share what we know, its what we do best.

Southgate Timber is a family-run business and although I haven’t been here long, I already feel part of it. Its heart-warming to be part of family-run business where every member of the family is just as involved as the other. We’re all friends here and we enjoy being in each other’s company on a daily basis. The atmosphere in our office is warm and welcoming. We have a laugh with one another, and most of the time it’s the customers that come in to collect that we’re having a laugh with. Please don’t be shy, if you’re collecting from us, remember to come into the office and pick up your paperwork, not only is it important you pick up your invoice, but we enjoy the chat more than anything. If you need advice, a sample, or even just to purchase a shop item, then pop into our office and say hello, I promise you’ll have fun and you’ll leave with a much better understanding than you did before you arrived.

So, I guess I’ll be seeing you soon.

Olivia