All About our Hardwoods

Our timber and street furniture range is manufactured from sustainably sourced Australian hardwoods. Hardwoods are generated from angiosperms (trees that produce enclosed seeds), usually broad leaved and flowering. Hardwoods are generally more durable, with any treatments used extending the durability of the wood. As a material hardwoods are reasonably dense which equates to a strong wood. There is a noticeable grain in the wood caused by its water transportation, from moderate to large vessels which give a prominent grain and a porous appearance. In comparison to softwoods the pricing is slightly more expensive as the trees have a slower growth rate. Hardwoods are perfect for outdoor use for both aesthetics and durability. The woods have typically greater fire resistance due in part to greater thickness and width. At Felton we’ve selected Australian Spotted Gum and Blackbutt Hardwoods as our timbers of choice.

Spotted Gum

A high-quality native hardwood with a striking appearance generated by its unique grain structure, wood markings and a vibrant colour palette. The special grain appearance comes from the bark shedding in different thickness and locations. When milled the grain appears wavy providing an attractive fiddleback colour and a moderate, course texture. The trees have a straight slender trunk with smooth bark growing up to 45m in height. The spotted gums generally encompass four different species of gum trees along the East Coast of Australia. The primary forest locations are within Northeastern Victoria and the upper regions of Queensland. The heartwood spans a colour range of light brown to dark red and brown giving character and warmth within any space. The sapwood is lighter with a white to light brown hue range. A low tannin content prevents staining of wood and ensures it readily accepts paint, stains, and polishes. This makes it the perfect choice for our street furniture range.

Blackbutt Hardwoods

A tougher, especially durable alternative, this hardwood is popular for external and outdoor use. Grain appearance is straighter with a uniform and even texture, making the wood less pliable. The trees have straight and cylindrical trunks with a circular cross section, growing to heights of 40-60m. A unique colour palette is present from these species starting with darker woods around the trunk, extending to a lighter gradient as the top of the tree is reached. The common name ‘Blackbutt’ comes from the visual appearance of the trees covered in a rough and fibrous bark usually charred from previous bushfires.  The wood is highly fire resistant, being one of only seven species of Hardwoods for approval within bushfire regions by the Building Commission in Victoria. The wood colour range is generally light coloured spanning cream to warm brown hues. The beautiful Blackbutt hardwood is found in our classic timber picnic setting

At Felton we take great pride in developing products made from the highest quality materials across our outdoor furniture range. If you would like to know more about our timber or street furniture, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team on 1800 834 016 or continue to browse to our timber or street furniture range.