Ironbark Flooring

About the Ironbark Tree

Ironbark refers to a number of different tree species. These include the Red Ironbarks, Eucalyptus tricarpa, Eucalyptus sideroxylon and Eucalyptus crebra as well as the Grey Ironbarks, Eucalyptus drepanophylla, Eucalyptus paniculata.

The Ironbark tree is a medium-sized Australian native, growing between 30 and 50 metres tall with a trunk diameter of approximately 1.5 metres. The bark is described as hard and coarse, with deep furrows and ridges that range from dark brown to black in colour, and it grows on even the smallest branches.

The thick, permanent, deeply-grooved bark serves to protect the tree from fire. The distinctive bark is also responsible for the tree’s name as the term Ironbark was used to describe the trees due to the bark’s similarity to iron slag.

Ironbark Timber

Ironbark is known to be a premium native hardwood in Australia. With a reputation of being exceptionally hard and dense, Ironbark is highly termite resistant.

Red Ironbark is a deep, dark-red to red-brown colour with a fine, even texture and an interlocked grain. It is extremely hardwearing and durable which allows for numerous applications and uses.

Grey Ironbark’s colours range from reddish-grey to dark-brown with a tight and straight grain. It is popular for its durability and warm tones.

With a lifespan of over 25 years below ground and more than 40 years above ground, Ironbark is the ideal choice for internal and external use. Its fire-retardant properties make it a great option for areas that face the threat of bushfire.

Both Red and Grey Ironbark have been identified as ideal timbers for engineered structures that require excellent durability and strength, including but not limited to wharf and bridge members, poles, railway sleepers, and mining timbers. It is most commonly used for building construction materials from poles, framing, flooring, decking and cladding. Ironbark timber is also used for decorative purposes such as indoor and outdoor furniture, turning and joinery.

Traditionally, Indigenous Australians used Ironbark to make throwing spears due to its sturdiness.

Ironbark in Flooring

Ironbark timber flooring provides several benefits such as a high resistance to rot and termites and excellent durability, hardness and density. It also has many variations and is widely available.

Cleaning and maintenance are simple, and if cleaned regularly, your Ironbark flooring will last for many years. For best results, clean up any major spillages immediately, and use a soft-bristled broom or vacuum daily to remove all loose dust and debris.

Coming in various lengths, widths, thicknesses, and even colours, you are sure to find an Ironbark timber flooring to fit your home decor.