Services & Support
Operations - how we work at Southern Timber
From Accounts through estimates to VAT Invoices these are the mechanics of how Southern Timber operates to assist its diverse pool of customers. There are so many variables with every transaction, but there are a number of common questions that customers frequently ask. By explaining how we work it is hoped that customers will have a better idea of what we can do for them and where to find the information they want.
Choosing the right product
Whenever we receive a customer enquiry our staff will invariably ask “who is it for” and “what is it for”. While many customers are experienced tradespersons this is difficult for us to ascertain over the telephone, especially if they don’t say who is calling! One of our objectives is to supply a product that is fit for purpose and to do that we need to know a little bit of what is going on – it’s very often part of our learning process too.
Our buying guides will be available online, while not revolutionary they provide an outline of what products are available from stock and offer some advice as well.
Installation advice
Southern Timber has a strong base of Trade customers. We believe that we should develop a store of product information for all of our customers, a reference point where they can gather advice in timber areas where they might not be so familiar. This will develop over time and we welcome any comments from customers on any other topics that they might find useful.
Some of this information might be quite basic - we make no apologies for that, our aim is to help anybody. Other advice might be a bit obscure, but wherever we get asked something out of the ordinary we might as well share whatever knowledge we gain
Maintenance & Care of products
Almost all of Southern Timber’s external products have been pressure treated with preservative to help the wood resist attack from moisture, fungi which cause decay and insects. However, a little regular maintenance will give provide extra protection. Timber is a natural product and absorbs moisture from the surrounding air, so external timbers tend to shrink to when dry and exhibit cracks – and then when they get wet they will expand and the cracks will close. Additionally Ultraviolet rays from the sun will discolour products and many wood treatments will contain UV inhibitors to slow down this process.
Interior products – flooring and work surfaces in particular – also benefit from routine maintenance, Southern Timber carry a selection of products which will help keep your timber products looking good for years to come.
