Product News

Sugar gum in stock perfect for external uses

SMARTimbers has substantial supplies of standard profile sugar gum decking at either 60mm or 85mm width at prices comparable to other specialty and recycled timbers.

One of the few timbers with a Class 1 durability rating for exterior uses (in and above ground), sugar gum is ideally suited to decking, stair treads and external shiplap panelling, as well as posts and poles. A high density hardwood, sugar gum (Eucalyptus cladocalyx) is almost unique as a sustainably managed native hardwood.

SMARTimbers also has a limited batch of 15m3 of kiln dried sugar gum in a unique caramel colour, sourced from a plantation at Majorca in Central Victoria. The caramel colour is due to steam reconditioning that the timber underwent as part of the kiln drying process. Kiln drying ensures stability for furniture and cabinet making.

Air dried decking supplied by SMARTimbers has a wonderful honey colour. Plantation sugar gum is even in consistency and has few knots. One customer remarked that it looks far too good for decking.

Veneer adds authority to board room tables

Sugar gum veneer has gained a seal of approval from the newly established Sustainable Energy Authority (SEA) at 215 Spring St in Melbourne's CBD. Pictured at right is one of SEA's two massive boardroom tables that feature 0.6mm sugar gum veneer purchased from SMARTimbers. The front reception desk also uses sugar gum veneer.

A dark tan, the veneer has character to rival mahogany or walnut. Its high density makes it impervious to scratching. Use of veneer reduces both weight and cost. The veneer would also be tough enough for floating flooring. It would certainly provide a stunning alternative to the more usual hardwood flooring.

Plantation cypress makes an ideal alternative to treated pine

SMARTimbers has extensive stocks of plantation cypress that is ideal as a substitute to radiata pine. The natural habitat of Cupressus macrocarpa is near Monterey in southern California, also the home of radiata pine. Macrocarpa cypress is widely grown as a shelterbelt tree in central & western Victoria. Grown extensively in New Zealand, macrocarpa is considered one of the most naturally durable exotic softwoods and is resistant to insect and borer attack in its sawn form. Macrocarpa is a moderately stiff, strong timber very similar to Kauri in character. It has a large amount of heartwood, which is a golden brown honey colour.

Cypress exudes a natural oil that protects it for exterior uses and gives it a pleasant tang. Light and easy to work, it makes a ready alternative for treated radiata pine. It is well-suited to door and window framing, as well as decking, railing and posts. With small, tight knots and its beautiful warm golden tones, macrocarpa makes a fine appearance timber and is also used in New Zealand for flooring and cabinet making.