Spotted Gum Decking Sydney
Company Info
- Sydney Wide
- Email Us
- 0413 185 735
- Mon to Fri: 8AM – 5PM
- Saturday: 9AM – 1PM
- Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
- ABN 34 620 937 019
The Spotted Gum Decking Appeal
Spotted gum is one of Australia’s premium native hardwood timbers. It is the most commonly used name for four species that grow along the east coast of Australia, from northern Victoria to the Queensland Tablelands. It is also known as Lemon-scented gum and spotted Irongum.
The heartwood ranges from light brown to reddy-brown hues, with the sapwood (outer layer) usually light brown to pale white.
Gum veins are common in the finished product, and the deck board can have a wavy grain that produces an attractive fiddle-back figure (pattern). It is one of the most beautiful hardwood deck boards in the Australian market.
It is also less prone to bleed through than other hardwoods and is ideally suited as a high-quality decking board.
Spotted gum decking is a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice. The timber is sourced from responsibly managed forests and plantations and can be easily recycled or reused at the end of its lifespan.
It is one of our hardest native hardwoods with a Janka rating of 11 (very hard to dent – tough as nails) and has a Class 1 above-ground durability rating. It will easily last up to 40 years when properly installed, giving you lots of time to enjoy its natural beauty.
At UrbanArch Building, we’re a family owned and operated business with over a decade of experience delivering high-quality solutions. With a passion for bridging the gap between form and function, our eye for detail underpins everything we do. That means meeting your budget and design goals from project inception to completion.
We understand that outdoor living is a large part of your lifestyle, and we’re here to help craft a deck you fall in love with every day, even if it makes the neighbours jealous.
What Are the Benefits of Spotted Gum Decking?
Spotted gum decking is one of the most popular hardwood choices for homeowners thanks to its stunning appearance and natural characteristics that lend themselves to a durable, modern deck.
It offers many advantages as a building material for outdoor living spaces. Some of the main advantages include the following:
Durability: Spotted gum decking is known for its durability and strength, which makes it a popular choice for outdoor applications. It is naturally resistant to rot, decay, and termites, which helps it to withstand exposure to the elements.
Fire resistance: Spotted gum decking is naturally fire-resistant, which makes it a popular choice for homes in bushfire-prone areas. It has a low flammability rating, which means it is less likely to catch fire or spread flames in the event of a fire.
Aesthetics: Spotted gum decking has a unique appearance, with natural colours ranging from light yellow to dark reddy brown and distinctive grain patterns. Spotted gum can include blondes, golden browns, and darker browns for a complex finish that complements its setting. This makes it popular for homeowners and designers who want to create functional and visually appealing outdoor living spaces.
Versatility: Spotted gum decking is available in a range of sizes and profiles, allowing homeowners and designers to customize the appearance of their decking to fit their specific needs and preferences. It can be used for everything from small balconies to large outdoor living areas. It can be installed using traditional timber framing or specialized fixing systems for concrete or other substrates. This makes it a flexible building material used in various outdoor living spaces.
Slip resistance: Spotted gum decking has a natural slip resistance, which makes it a safer choice for outdoor living spaces. This is particularly important for homes with children or elderly residents who may be more prone to slips and falls.
Resistance to chemicals: Spotted gum decking is naturally resistant to chemicals, which makes it a popular choice for homes with swimming pools or outdoor spa areas. It can withstand exposure to chlorine and other pool chemicals without becoming damaged or discoloured.
Resilient to weathering: It has a high level of natural resistance to weathering and fading, which means it will maintain its colour and appearance for longer than many other decking materials.
Sustainability: Spotted gum decking is a sustainable building material sourced from managed forests and plantations in Australia. This makes it a popular choice for homeowners and designers looking for environmentally friendly building materials.
There’s no missing this material with its striking visuals and natural variation in colour. With shades from light brown to dark red, spotted gum can include blondes, golden browns, and darker browns for a complex finish that complements its setting.
- Naturally resistant to decay
- Easy to work with for custom installations
- UV resistant to hold colour for longer
- Less likely to scratch, dent or mark
- A range of striking colours from blonde to deep brown and light reds
- Stands up to harsh weather conditions
- Bushfire resistant (BAL 29)
- Easy to oil or stain
- Managed plantation product - environmentally friendly
- Suitable for high traffic areas
- Minimal tannin bleed compared to most species
With a lifespan of more than 40 years, hardwood spotted gum decks are purpose-built to grow with your family and provide a stunning outdoor space year after year.
How Much Does Spotted Gum Decking Cost?
It typically costs more than other hardwood timbers due to its naturally durable characteristics, giving it a longer life span than many other hardwood decking timbers.
Compared with Jarrah ($88/m2) or Blackbutt ($97/m2), the average price lands around $135/m2 for random length 135 x 19 mm boards. If you prefer longer boards with fewer joins, the average price for 5.4-metre to 6.1 metre-long boards is around $180/m2.
That price is for the board only. Don’t forget to factor in all the other associated costs like stainless steel decking screws, substructure timber, and piers, steps if needed, and installation.
With exquisite timber products and competitive pricing across deck boards of all styles and sizes, call and speak to a member of our team today to organise your FREE onsite decking consultation.
What sizes does Spotted Gum decking come in?
Most hardwood deck boards come in random lengths. That means that when you receive your delivery, you can expect the deck boards to vary from 1 metre to 4.8 metres.
Spotted gum decking is available in a range of widths, typically ranging from 86mm to 136mm. However, the widths available may vary depending on the supplier and manufacturer. Some common widths for spotted gum decking include:
- 86mm
- 90mm
- 108mm
- 130mm
- 136mm
It’s always a good idea to check with your supplier to see their specific sizes. They may also be able to provide you with custom sizes or profiles if needed.
You can ask them to range from 5.4 to 6.1 metre-long boards if you prefer longer lengths. This is usually regarded as a special order and will have to be made up by the mill specifically for you. It will attract a premium of up to 50% on the price of the random-length deck boards.
How long does it take to install a spotted gum deck?
The deck installation time can vary due to a range of factors. When budgeting for your deck, these are just some things that need to be considered.
- Size
- Style
- Complexity
The larger and more complex your deck is, the longer it will take to install.
There is a range of features that you can add to your deck that has become popular in the Sydney market that will not only make it more functional and attractive but also add to the installation time.
When considering some of these features, make sure they add to the use and pleasure you will get from your spotted gum deck, as they can add many thousands of dollars to the final price.
This is a short list of some of the custom features clients have asked us for.
- multi-level decks with separate areas for dining & entertaining
- planter boxes
- storage boxes with hydraulic struts
- custom-designed fascia (surrounds)
- bleacher steps (extra wide)
- inbuilt barbeque with power, hot and cold water, beer/wine fridge, and drainage
- deck lighting
- enclosed steps
- handrails and balustrades
- custom-designed deck privacy screens
- outside showers on the deck
- custom-designed stairs linking a balcony deck to a lower-level deck
and many more features
As custom builders, we can consider countless design variables as part of the spotted gum deck design services we offer clients. This ensures that your deck not only satisfies all your functional requirements but also mirrors the way you want it to look and feel – a central part of your family’s life that will serve you for many happy decades.
Typically, you can expect to have your deck completed within 2 to 4 weeks of commencement. Larger and more complex decks can take a little longer to complete before you sit on your new outdoor furniture with a drink.
What is this material suitable for?
These are more than just the type of industry buzzwords our installers talk about at parties. They’re the full range of applications for versatile spotted gum decking.
With minimal imperfections and a naturally oily texture, this material lends itself to saw and machinery work, allowing you to benefit from endless shapes and styles. And as a hardy and durable material, spotted gum deck boards accept oil, stain, and polish to keep your deck looking brand new.
Your new deck retains that “just installed” feel for longer, and with regular maintenance, you’ll have the neighbours thinking you’ve installed a new deck year after year.
How Strong Is Spotted Gum Decking?
Your choice of material can’t just be made on the ‘eye test’ alone. Choosing materials from a catalogue or on Google is a great way to fill a lazy Sunday, but the shortcut to choosing a material that isn’t suited to your needs.
Thankfully, this material doesn’t have that problem. Rated Class 1 on the durability scale (the highest possible score) for above-ground use, spotted gum decking will last for 40 years or more with strength and durability that can handle the wear and tear of your family.
Spotted gum is used across various engineering applications such as wharf, bridge construction, and railway sleepers. It is a versatile timber with one of the strongest strength ratings available (F17 – F34). It suits various building applications, such as posts and poles, framing, flooring, lining, decking and cladding.
Able to support the weight of your favourite outdoor furniture, your BBQ, and the guests who will inevitably want to be invited to your house for every holiday, Christmas and Sunday get together, this type of hardwood provides proven strength no matter how you plan to enjoy your deck.
Does Spotted Gum Decking Need Oiling?
Like any other hardwood, a spotted gum hardwood deck needs to be acid washed and reoiled every 9 to 12 months to keep it looking fresh and vivid. This doesn’t mean you’ll be spending every other weekend doing hard yakka, but knowing how to care for any timber is essential to keep your deck’s lustre for the long term.
Applying oil or sealer to spotted gum decking can help to enhance its natural grain and colour while also providing a protective layer that can help to prevent moisture penetration and minimize the risk of cracking, splitting, and warping. Additionally, oiling or sealing the timber can help to prevent fading or discolouration caused by exposure to sunlight.
A protective finish, such as a clear sealant or oil-based stain, can help to enhance further the resistance of spotted gum decking to chemicals and other types of wear and tear.
Oiling tip:
If you are going to oil your deck, it needs to dry out for a good two to three days after acid-washing it before applying oil to it. If it’s oiled too soon, you will probably notice black spores (markings) starting to show after a week or two. If this happens, the deck must be acid washed again before applying fresh oil.
Testing a small area before applying any oil is a good idea. Pour a small cup of water over a section of decking board – if it beads, it’s too soon to oil it. If the wood absorbs it quickly, it usually means it’s safe to go ahead and oil the deck.
Oiling timber should be done to highlight the unique colour of the wood (with no two boards looking identical). Instead of using a clear oil (which won’t last long under the Australian sun), opt for oil with some pigmentation. (Cutek makes a good quality oil well suited to spotted gum decking.)
This will protect your new deck boards against harsh UV rays but help your deck’s gorgeous reds, pinks, and golden browns stand out.
Yearly oiling with high-quality oil is the simple secret to maintaining a beautiful spotted gum hardwood deck that looks like the premium timber decking that it is.
How long will a Spotted Gum deck last??
Spotted gum decking is a durable and long-lasting option that can last for up to 40 years or more with proper maintenance. Factors that can affect the lifespan of your decking include exposure to the elements, the quality of the timber, and how well it is maintained.
Here are a few tips to help extend the life of your deck
Oiling the bottom and sides of the Spotted Gum deck boards before installation gives the added benefit of more even coverage. It gives the product a better chance of penetrating and sealing the grain before exposure to the weather. It will increase the life of your hardwood deck. Cutek wood preservative is one of the best options available.
We recommend that the ends of the deck boards are also oiled, as the end grain is the most vulnerable to moisture absorption & retention, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and eventually rot.
A Final Note: New wood is milled smooth and often has a mill glaze which can significantly restrict oil absorption into the deck board. Better results can be achieved by creating a rougher surface and preparing the wood using Cutek Proclean or by giving the top surface of the board a light sand with 80 grit sandpaper.
Does Spotted Gum Decking need weathering before oiling?
Weathering depends on how you would like your timber to look. For a more worn-in, weathered look, leaving the timber exposed to the elements for a few weeks is recommended. Weathering the Spotted Gum for around six weeks will allow the timber to excrete some excess tannins and natural oils.
Once the timber appears to have greyed and dried somewhat, you should wash it with a quality timber cleaning product and clean water. We suggest Cutek Quick Clean or Cutek Proclean.
Once dry, you can apply your oil of choice. If you choose an oil with no colour pigment, the deck boards will take on a greyer or silver look over time.
If you want to keep the rich, fresh look of the timber, we recommend you oil your deck either before or immediately after installation. Doing so ensures the prevention of excess moisture penetrating the timber, which can cause several issues in the long run, even leading to the timber requiring replacement.
How do I Oil my Spotted Gum Deck?
We often get asked this question. “My deck was installed about a year ago, and it’s probably time to re-oil it. How do I do it?”
There are several answers to this question.
If you aren’t sure that it’s something you want to do – contact us, and we’ll organise a quote for you. It’s an excellent way to keep the natural beauty and durability of your hardwood deck without the worry about whether or not you got it right (as well as spending money on materials and then deciding to have it re-done professionally).
If you’d like to tackle the job yourself, we have assembled a Hardwood Deck Sealing Guide that will show you how to tackle the project successfully. The comprehensive guide covers what you need to know to complete the job correctly. Contact us, and we’ll be happy to send you a copy. It covers areas such as:
- How do I know when my deck needs re- oiling
- Do I need to acid wash the deck
- Do I have to sand the deck boards first
- Will a power washer (karcher) damage the deck boards
- What oil should I use
- How do I know when I have applied enough oil
- Is it best to use a brush or a woolen fleece applicator
Spotted Gum Decking vs. Composite Decking
On the fence when it comes to spotted gum vs. composite decking?
Although this decision may seem simple, it’s quite complex. But don’t worry; we’ll unpack the pros and cons of each material to help you find the right option for your needs and budget.
Is This Right for Your Home? (Hint: Yes)
You’ve been comparing deck builder companies on Google. Researching the right hardwood material for your new deck and maybe even pictured where you’ll position your new outdoor furniture to catch the best sun on those hot, sunny afternoons you’ll be spending outside.
So take the next step and organise a FREE consultation with a member of our friendly team. At UrbanArch deck builders Sydney we are fully licensed and can bring your vision to life while exceeding your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sydney Spotted Gum Decking
Is spotted gum good for decks?
Spotted gum is a versatile hardwood for various outdoor applications, including decking, pergolas, and outdoor furniture. Its unique grain pattern varies from tree to tree, giving it a distinctive appearance that is highly sought after by homeowners and designers.
Absolutely. You couldn’t ask for better decking material for our diverse Australian climate. A strong, hardy, and aesthetically striking timber, spotted gum decking is one of the premier timbers available.
However, like any natural wood product, spotted gum decking can have problems if improperly installed or maintained. Ensuring that the decking is installed with sufficient ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rot and decay.
Regular inspections and maintenance should also be carried out to check for any signs of damage or wear and tear and to apply any necessary treatments or repairs.
Spotted gum is an excellent choice for decking in Sydney and Australia, providing strength, durability, and natural beauty. It’s a popular choice for outdoor living spaces and outdoor entertaining areas.
Spotted gum decking and termites - Is it a problem?
Like all wood products, spotted gum decking is susceptible to termite damage. However, it is highly resistant to termite infestations, making it a popular choice for outdoor living spaces. Termites, in particular, are a common problem for homeowners aI Australia and can cause significant damage to wooden structures.
In addition to termites, other common pests like ants and beetles are less likely to be attracted to spotted gum decking. This natural resistance to pests can help reduce the need for chemical treatments, which can harm the environment and human health.
While spotted gum decking is naturally resistant to pests, it’s still important to take steps to prevent pest infestations. This can include keeping the decking clean and debris-free, trimming nearby trees and plants, and using appropriate treatments if necessary.
Spotted gum decking is highly resistant to pests, making it a low-maintenance and eco-friendly option for outdoor living spaces. By preventing pest infestations and adequately maintaining the decking, you can enjoy its natural beauty and durability for many years to come.
Hardwoods usually get harder over time, making the timber more resistant to termites. However, the timber can also become more vulnerable, depending on long-term treatment, moisture content, age, and condition.
Check for termites: Like all timber products, spotted gum decking is susceptible to termite damage. Regularly inspect your decking for signs of termite activity, such as small holes in the wood or piles of sawdust near the decking. If you notice any signs of termites, contact a pest control professional immediately.
It is recommended that you maintain your deck regularly and also have it periodically checked for termites.
Will spotted gum turn grey?
It does take on a greyish colour over time (which many homeowners love). If you’d prefer to maintain your favourite swirling caramels, browns and reds, you can use oils to maintain lustre.
Is spotted gum decking treated?
Spotted gum decking is usually kiln-dried but not pre-oiled before delivery. The boards are generally oiled on-site before installation. It is essential to treat the bottoms, cut ends and sides of the boards before installation, as these sections of the deck boards can absorb moisture if unprotected and then suffer from warping and cupping over time.
Overall, the longevity of spotted gum decking makes it a wise investment for homeowners who are looking to create a durable, long-lasting outdoor living space. With proper care and maintenance, a spotted gum deck can provide years of enjoyment and enhance the value of a home while contributing to the environment’s sustainability.
If you prefer your deck boards to be pre-oiled before delivery, let us know, and we will organize this for you.
Is spotted gum decking suitable for bushfire prone areas?
Spotted Gum decking is known for its natural fire resistance, which makes it a popular choice for homes in bushfire-prone areas. The timber of the spotted gum tree has a low flammability rating, which means it is less likely to ignite and spread flames in the event of a fire.
This is partly because spotted gum decking is naturally fire-resistant due to its high density and low resin content. Additionally, the interlocking grain structure of the timber makes it more difficult for flames to penetrate and spread through the wood.
Arguably one of Australia’s most bold native hardwoods, it has a naturally high bushfire resistance rating of Bal 29.
However, it is important to note that no building material can be fireproof. While spotted gum decking is less likely to ignite and spread flames in the event of a fire, it can still be damaged or destroyed by intense heat. Homeowners in bushfire-prone areas should still take precautions to protect their homes and outdoor living spaces, such as creating a buffer zone around the property, using fire-resistant landscaping, and having a bushfire plan in place.
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Benefits Of Choosing UrbanArch Building
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