Spotted Gum Decking

spotted gum decking newcastle

Spotted gum (Corymbia maculata) is an Australian native hardwood timber known for its premium grain structure and vibrant colours. Its wavy pattern produces the characteristic look of a natural ‘fiddleback’ that architects, designers and homeowners are often drawn to.

It is strong and durable with a Class 1 durability rating above ground and Class 2 for in-ground contact. It is also termite-resistant and has a low tannin content.

Appearance

Spotted gum is a premium Australian timber with a striking appearance and high degree of natural durability and strength. It is commonly used for architectural timber cladding, batten screens and timber decking. Its versatility makes it suitable for both residential and commercial construction. It is also an excellent choice for bushfire prone areas, as it is naturally resistant to pests and fire.

The colour of spotted gum varies from light brown through to chocolate brown, with a distinctive wavy grain pattern that produces the characteristic “fiddleback” look. It is relatively easy to work with, whether machine-worked or hand-worked and it accepts stain or oil well, with minimal tannin bleed-through.

It is advisable to coat spotted gum decking once it has weathered, as the process will help it develop its own protective coating. This will protect the timber from moisture and chemicals, as well as slow down the aging process. Oil based coatings are generally preferred for spotted gum, as they penetrate the timber and create a rich oily finish.

Durability

When it comes to choosing decking timber, durability is an important consideration. A tough and dense timber like spotted gum can withstand the elements, including UV rays and rain, without fading or warping. It also resists pests and rot, making it an excellent choice for bushfire-prone areas.

Spotted gum, which is made from four different species of Eucalyptus tree, is a popular Australian hardwood. It grows along the east coast of NSW, Victoria, and Queensland.

While it can be costly compared to other decking timber options, the quality of this natural wood is worth the upfront investment. However, homeowners should be aware that spotted gum is susceptible to moisture-related problems, such as mould and cupping. It is also vulnerable to lyctus infestation, which can lead to irreparable damage to the timber. It is important to seal and oil the wood yearly to prevent moisture-related damage.

Workability

Spotted gum is a hard timber (class 1 above ground and class 2 in-ground contact), dense, strong, durable and is naturally bush fire resistant. It has a lower tannin content than other Australian hardwoods, and as such is less prone to bleed-through of stain, making it an ideal choice for decking projects.

The timber is easy to work with, machining well and accepting nails and glue with ease. It also accepts a wide range of preservative treatments, which can further improve its durability and resistance to the elements.

While spotted gum timber is often more expensive than other timber decking options, this premium material is an investment that will pay off in the long run. Its superior strength and durability can withstand heavy foot traffic and wear and tear, ensuring a long lifespan for your commercial construction project. Its dimensional stability also makes it less prone to shrinkage or twisting over time. Its stability means that if the timber is properly treated and maintained, it can stand up to even the harshest weather conditions.

Maintenance

Spotted gum decking is a durable wood that is resistant to weathering and fading. It is also resistant to chemicals, which makes it a good choice for homes with outdoor pool areas. However, it’s important to seal spotted gum decking to keep it looking like new. This can be done by applying water-based decking oil. Make sure to apply a few coats to ensure that the oil penetrates deep into the timber.

As with all hardwoods, spotted gum decking can be susceptible to splinters and is more labour-intensive than some composite materials. It also requires regular maintenance to protect it from moisture, sun damage, and insects. While spotted gum is naturally bush fire resistant, it’s important to use it with appropriate fire retardant treatment if you live in a bushfire-prone area. The wood is also susceptible to the attacks of lyctid borers (also known as powderpost beetles). If left untreated, this can cause irreparable damage to the timber.



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