Resources

timber resources

There is a lot to know about timber. Luckily it’s our passion and we’re glad to share our knowledge. See below for some helpful links, though if you can’t find what you’re looking for, please contact us.

timber species

All timber species have individual qualities which lend themselves to different applications. Durability, stability, and colour are imperative considerations in both indoor and outdoor environments, so selecting the most suitable species for your project is as important as the design itself. Before choosing a timber based on appearance, check our information about class ratings and hardness ratings.

There is a list of timber species as long as your arm so we’ve provided our top picks and specialties below along with explanations of class, durability and hardness ratings. Click on the species for more information or download this printable guide to the species. If you have a query about an unlisted timber species please contact us to discuss its suitability and availability.

American White Oak
Brownbarrell
Blackbutt
Mountain Ash
Tasmanian Oak
Yellow Stringybark
Messmate
Tallowwood
Silvertop Ash
Brush Box
Oregon
Grey Ironbark
Sydney Blue Gum
Karri
Blackwood
Spotted Gum
Jarrah
Red Ironbark
Red Mahogany
Forest Red Gum

class rating

Class ratings are important to note prior to falling in love with the colour of a species, particularly for external and in-ground applications. Some clients are heartbroken when they realise that the good looking blonde they had in mind for their deck is not the best suited timber. This information comes from the Timber Building in Australia website.

Timber class rating table

hardness rating

The hardness rating of timber species is measured by the Janka test, which tests the resistance of the timber to indentation. The results relate to a hardness capacity of the material and are expressed in kilo-newtons(kN); the higher the rating, the harder the timber. This information is useful to consider when selecting timber to match your lifestyle and the kind of traffic your timber floor will be subject to.

Timber hardness rating chart

timber finishes

We think timber is beautiful any which way you look at it, although these brands offer products that really bring it to life.

timber-maintenance-australia-natural-osmo-melbourne

OSMO finishes are based on natural oils and waxes. The oil penetrates into the wood surface, protecting the wood from deep within. Aside from their wide range of timber finishes, OSMO also have a timber cleaning range, all available in our showroom or online store.

timber-maintenance-australia-natural-bona-melbourne

Regarded as the world leaders in waterborne finishes for timber floors, Bona also provide everything else needed for a timber floor except the timber. They distribute nationally to both homeowners and businesses alike.

timber-maintenance-australia-natural-cutek-melbourne

For outstanding protection and restoration of exterior timbers with proven performance on hardwoods, softwoods and bamboo.

Whittle Waxes

Whittle Waxes are ecologically harmonised wood-care products developed to match the specific requirements of Australian timbers.

timber maintenance

Ageing; it happens to us all, including your timber furniture.  If your piece was finished in an oil, it’s important to continue to nourish it to ensure it is protected from the wear and tear of life. We stock the range of plant based, non toxic OSMO products which are designed to keep your timber furniture looking its best. You can view and purchase OSMO products in our showroom, on our online store or give us a call to discuss how you can keep your piece looking great.

more timber information

The below websites contain some of the most valuable information regarding timber in Australia.

wood-solutions-logo-500x500

WoodSolutions is an industry initiative which provides independent, non-proprietary information about timber and wood products to those involved in building design and construction. The website has over 3,000 pages of information, downloadable resources and technical publications.

fsc-org-logo-500x500

The FSC is an international association consisting of a diverse group of representatives from environmental and social groups, timber and forestry, indigenous organisations, responsible corporations and certification organisations from around the world.

wood-naturally-better-logo-500x500

The Wood Naturally Better.™ website has been created to give information about Australia’s forest and wood products sector. They seek to educate about the advantages of wood and its positive contribution to reducing the effects of climate change. 

Responsible Wood logo

Responsible Wood pioneered the development of certification standards for sustainable wood sourced from managed forests in Australia. They also manage the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme underpinned by two Australian Standards®: Sustainable Forest Management (AS 4708) and Chain of Custody for Forest Products (AS 4707). 

events

Whether you’re looking to do some further learning, attend an exhibition or enter your timber project into an award category, there are many events throughout the year to consider. Below are just a small selection of events to keep an eye on.

events-australian-timber-design-awards-sponsor
Australian Timber
Design Awards

Running for almost two decades, the Awards have a proud heritage of innovation and achievement; they promote and encourage outstanding timber design.

events-australian-institute-of-architects

Here you can find a calendar of state-based, National and International events and awards for the design and construction industry.

green building council events australia

Conferences, exhibitions, tours and discussions designed to drive the sustainable transformation of Australia’s built environment.

eat drink design awards australia

The annual Eat Drink Design Awards supports excellence in the design of hospitality premises, retail environments selling food and beverages and visual identities for both.

events-australian-institute-of-landscape-architects

AILA’s events portfolio provides a chance for members to engage, learn, network and gain valuable CPD points. Events are run by AILA nationally and locally throughout the year.

INDE Awards logo

One of the most prestigious design awards in Asia Pacific. The INDE Awards celebrate the most progressive buildings, spaces, objects, proposals and people.

Design Institute of Australia

The DIA help Australia’s designers succeed in business while growing Australia’s reputation as a Design Nation. Their events page lists various National events and competitions.

events-australian-good-design-awards-sponsor

The Good Design Awards showcase superior examples of good design across a broad range of industries and design disciplines, including architecture. They promoting the very best in design, innovation and creativity.

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American White Oak

Pale yellow-brown to mid brown, sometimes with a pink tinge. Texture is coarse. The grain is usually straight.

 

American White Oak timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Queros alba

External/Internal
Mainly Internal

Availability
New

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
4

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
4

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
6.0

Region
USA

Brownbarrell

Pale brown. Texture medium and even. Grain often interlocked. Gum veins common. Similar appearance to Messmate.

 

Brownbarrell timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus fastigata

External/Internal
Internal

Availability
New and Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
3

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
4

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
6.4

Region
VIC, NSW

Blackbutt

Pale brown, sometimes with a slight pinkish tinge. Texture medium and even. Grain usually straight and gum veins are common.

 

Blackbutt timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus pilularis

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
1

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
2

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
9.1

Region
NSW, QLD

Mountain Ash

Pale pink or pale straw. Texture rather coarse. Grain straight. Gum veins common.

 

Mountain Ash timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus regnans

External/Internal
Mainly Internal

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
3

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
4

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
4.9

Region
TAS, VIC

Tasmanian Oak

Pale brown. Texture moderately coarse but even. Grain sometimes interlocked. Gum veins common. ‘Pencil streak’ stains sometimes present.

 

Tasmanian Oak melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Trading name for a mixture of Mountain Ash, Alpine Ash and Messmate.

External/Internal
Mainly Internal

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
3

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
3

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
4.9 – 7.1

Region
TAS, VIC, NSW, QLD

Yellow Stringybark

Yellowish brown with a pink tinge. Texture medium and even. Grain often interlocked.

 

Yellow Stringybark timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus muellerana

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
2

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
3

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
8.5

Region
VIC, NSW

Messmate

Pale brown. Texture moderately coarse but even. Grain sometimes interlocked. Gum veins common. ‘Pencil streak’ stains sometimes present.

 

Messmate timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus obliqua

External/Internal
Mainly Internal

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
3

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
3

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
7.1

Region
TAS, VIC, NSW, QLD

Tallowwood

Yellowish brown with a tinge of olive green. Texture moderately coarse but even. Grain often interlocked. No gum veins. Pin-hole borer marks often present.

 

Tallowwood melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus microcorys

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
1

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
1

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
8.6

Region
NSW, QLD

Silvertop Ash

Pale brown, sometimes pinkish. Texture medium. Grain often interlocked. Gum veins, pin-hole borer discolouration and ‘pencil streak’ are common.

 

Silvertop Ash timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus sieberi

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
2

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
3

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
9.5

Region
TAS, VIC, NSW

Brushbox

Colour varies from a pinkish grey to a rich reddish brown. Texture fine and even. Grain usually interlocked to varying degrees.

 

Brush Box timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Lophostemon confertus

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
3

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
3

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
9.5

Region
NSW, QLD

Oregon

Yellow-brown to pale reddish brown. Grain generally straight. Coarse and uneven texture.

 

Oregon timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Douglas Fir or Pseudotsuga menziesii

External/Internal
Mainly Internal

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
4

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
4

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
3.0

Region
USA, CANADA

Grey Ironbark

Colour varies considerably from pale brown to dark chocolate brown and also dark red. Texture moderately coarse and even. Grain is usually interlocked.

 

Grey Ironbark timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus paniculata

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
1

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
1

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
14

Region
NSW, QLD

Sydney Blue Gum

Dark pink to red-brown. Texture moderately coarse and even. Grain straight or slightly interlocked. Gum veins common.

 

Sydney Blue Gum timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus saligna

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
2

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
3

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
9.0

Region
NSW, QLD

Karri

Paler pink to reddish brown. Grain often interlocked.

 

Karri timber for sale melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus diversicolor

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
2

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
3

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
9.0

Region
WA

Blackwood

Rich, golden brown sometimes with reddish streaks. Medium, even texture. Straight or wavy fiddle-backed grain.

 

Blackwood timber melbourneBotanical Name
Acacia melanoxylon

External/Internal
Internal

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
3

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
3

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
4.2–4.9

Region
NSW

Spotted Gum

Pale to dark brown or chocolate. Texture moderately coarse. Grain variable; the frequent presence of wavy grain produces an attractive fiddleback figure.
Slightly greasy in nature. Gum veins common.

 

Spotted Gum timber for sale melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus henryi,
Corymbia maculata or
Corymbia citriodora

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
1

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
2

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
11.0

Region
VIC, NSW, QLD

Jarrah

Dark red. Texture relatively coarse but even. Grain slightly interlocked sometimes producing a fiddleback figure.

 

Jarrah timber melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus marginata

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
2

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
2

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
8.5

Region
WA

Red Ironbark

Dark red. Texture medium and even. Grain interlocked.

 

Red Ironbark melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus sideroxylon

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
1

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
1

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
13.0

Region
VIC, NSW, QLD

Red Mahogany

Dark red. Texture medium and even. Grain slightly interlocked.

 

Red Mahogany melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus resinifera or eucalyptus pellita

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
1

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
2

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
12

Region
NSW, QLD

Forest Red Gum

Red. Texture moderately coarse and even. Grain often interlocked.

 

Forest Red Gum for sale melbourne victoria australiaBotanical Name
Eucalyptus tereticornis

External/Internal
Internal & External

Availability
New & Recycled

Above Ground Durability Class Rating
1

In-Ground Durability Class Rating
1

Seasoned timber hardness rating (Janka) kN
12.0

Region
VIC, NSW, QLD