Why Spotted Gum Is A Great Choice For Decking

Spotted gum decking Perth house

Many homeowners are drawn to spotted gum decking for its spectacular good looks. It has a striking tone and texture found only in premium hardwoods. But, is there more to this naturally beautiful timber than just a pretty face? In short, yes.  Spotted Gum has many other impressive features that make it an ideal choice for your outdoor area. Let’s take a closer look at why spotted gum is a great choice for decking.

What makes Spotted Gum timber good for decking?

Spotted Gum Timber Deck Swan River

Spotted gum is well-suited for decking because of its durability and superior wood properties, which include hardness, high density and strength.

It shrinks and moves less than some other timber decking options thanks to its remarkable density. Spotted gum is also naturally resistant to termites, stains and fire. In fact, it is a recommended timber in bushfire-prone areas.

As a decking material, spotted gum can stand up to the harsh Australian elements. It will also endure the rigours of daily use over a long period of time. With all these things in its favour, it’s easy to see why there’s a healthy demand for spotted gum timber decking across Perth.

Is Spotted Gum timber expensive?

Spotted Gum Timber decking

Spotted gum timber prices are often a little higher than prices of other timber decking options, but with good reason. Spotted gum is a superior material. It’s also a well-managed industry where the trees ‘play a role in land rehabilitation and management.

Though upfront costs for spotted gum timber may be higher than other options, this hardwood timber will withstand the test of time when treated and maintained properly. As a result, investing in spotted gum as a decking option can really pay off in the long run.

If you’re on a budget, be aware that there are timber decking specialists who offer spotted gum at competitive prices. They have periodic promotions on selected timber products. This means you may be able to get your hands on premium spotted gum timber for your decking without going over budget.

Is Spotted Gum timber easy to work with?

Laying Spotted Gum decking

People are surprised at how easy spotted gum is to work with. For such a strong, dense timber, spotted gum has very few workability issues. While the wood has a low number of imperfections, it has high levels of natural oils- making it easy to cut and machine. 

This popular decking timber also readily accepts stains and oils. Its minimal tannin content means it doesn’t ‘bleed’ as much as certain other native timbers can.

What does Spotted Gum timber look like?

Spotted Gum timber colour

The spotted gum tree has a pale appearance with its pink to grey-blue bark. In contrast, the timber has a much warmer colour palette, ranging from light brown to golden brown to a rich chocolate dark red/brown. This makes spotted gum a very popular decking option. With time, spotted gum timber decking will fade to an attractive grey.

As for the grain of this native timber, architects, designers and homeowners often fall in love with the wavy pattern found in many varieties of spotted gum. These waves are often referred to as natural ‘fiddleback’ and are a distinguishing characteristic of this hardwood timber.

What makes spotted gum so good?

In short, the characteristics that make spotted gum so appealing are:

  • Durability
  • Longevity
  • Resistance to weather, termites, stains, bushfires and everyday wear and tear
  • Workability (it machines well)
  • Sustainability 
  • Highly attractive natural look

If you’d like to invest in beautiful spotted gum timber for your outdoor deck, contact Austim today. We’ll give you a free quote and help you choose the best decking for your home. Isn’t it time you stepped up to next-level decking?

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    What our clients say

    Austim are a great partner and timber supplier. Our business is based on the East Coast of Australia and we partner with Austim for WA projects. We have had a long lasting and great working relationship with Austim for many years. Highly recommend them.
    daniel wright
    daniel wright
    06:31 18 Jun 19
    Austim is always the first place I try when I need timber and it’s rare that I can’t get what I need there. Stuart is a rare gem of a gent to deal with – quick to respond to any queries, full of good advice and goes out of his way to help get whatever project I’m working on happening to my schedule, even when all I need is a few sticks and a handful of fixings. Highly recommend Austim, the team and young Stuart.
    Anni Lilford
    Anni Lilford
    00:51 16 Nov 18
    Stuart went out of his way to make sure we got the product we wanted. He made suggestions on possible constructions and timbers suitable. Very knowledgeable friendly staff all around. Excellent experience, highly recommended.
    Holger Butenschon
    Holger Butenschon
    05:14 22 May 18
    Hi Ben,Just wanted to thankyou for your help and advice in our selection of the Millboard Vintage Oak decking also in you recommending Grant from Premier Hardwood Decking. Grant has just completed our decking and we couldn't have asked for a more professional, reliable and competent tradesman. The decking has been installed to a very high standard and the decking itself is stunning. Ian and Sue
    susan smith
    susan smith
    06:27 08 Oct 18
    I've used Austim on a few occasions for home projects like decking and pergola, etc and each time the response to my requests for price and delivery have been excellent, the deliveries took place as negotiated, the timber quality was great and value for money. The team at Austim do a great job and make dealing with Austim a breeze.
    Michael Robinson
    Michael Robinson
    09:06 25 Oct 18
    I have worked with Austim for around 8 years now and they are one of the best suppliers in perth to deal with. I would highly recommend to use them for any timber needs!!!
    Art of Timber
    Art of Timber
    07:55 05 Mar 20
    I had been looking for some cedar for my kayak project and had rung a couple of other places with no luck. When I contacted Austim they were very helpful, had the timber in stock and I was on my was in 20 minutes. The wood was very good quality and has really finished up beautifully. Thanks to Austim.
    mark alderson
    mark alderson
    02:03 08 Apr 17
    I"d like to thank Austim for there help in supplying me with material that firstly I thought I'd have trouble sourcing as it was marring up with originally 30 year old existing timber.My project was not a massive project but still needed the attention of an new build.The timber supplied by Austim was machined to size with absolute perfection, where I had to remove old pieces and replace with the new pieces they fitted perfectly.once the floors are re-sanded and varnished they will be back to there former glory. Thanks again to the staff at Austim.Regards Bob Heppenstall.I've just added a finished photo after the Floor Sanding was completed.Original timber was Tassie Oak, and the new is Vic Ash, as you can see there is only a slight variation in the final product.I hope this gives anyone thinking doing the same the confidence to proceed. Regards Bob Heppenstall.
    Robert Heppenstall
    Robert Heppenstall
    10:05 12 Oct 18
    Great service over phone and by email. Product supplied is high quality - no issues. Staff accommodating and friendly.
    M F
    M F
    00:18 07 May 20
    Good service with fair prices.
    Colin Della Bosca
    Colin Della Bosca
    08:14 04 Jun 20
    Great service and product.I struggled to find a bench top in the size and material I wanted, so was really happy when I found one with Austim.It came fully protected with wrap and was undamaged when I got it home.Thanks
    Matt Harrison
    Matt Harrison
    06:29 08 May 23
    Good selection, friendly staff, competitive pricing. Preferred over the 'hardware store'.You can hand pick if you need superior quality, Ben Price helped me with sorting through
    Dirk Wachter
    Dirk Wachter
    03:59 12 May 23
    Quick responses, timber prepared to request including cutting to Size. Easy pick up. Highly recommend.
    Martyn Lethbridge
    Martyn Lethbridge
    06:42 05 May 23
    We wanted Marri boards to make a bed - Austim provided beautiful planed and sized boards - at a good price - delivered on time......excellent service!
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    Mark Warren
    06:53 20 Aug 21

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      “The timber quality is excellent, the price was competitive, the communication spot on and the delivery just right. Well done and thanks again”

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