Tallowwood Timber: The Gold Standard for Durability

Where does Tallowwood timber come from?

Tallowwood or tallowood (Eucalyptus microcorys), is a Eucalypt species native to and common in New South Wales and Queensland, Australia. Tallowwood is a moderate to large tree and it grows in forests near the coast.

What is Tallowwood timber used for?

Tallowwood has been used for applications include wharf and bridge construction (as sawn and round timber), railway sleepers, cross-arms, poles, piles and mining timbers. Construction uses range from unseasoned framing to dressed timber cladding, internal and external flooring, linings and joinery. Tallowwood is also used in fencing, landscaping and the construction of retaining walls. Decorative uses include outdoor furniture, turnery and joinery.

What Colour is Tallowwood timber?

Tallowwood Colour & Grain
Tallowwood heartwood ranges from pale to dark yellow-brown, in contrast to its typically whitish sapwood. The texture of the timber is moderately coarse, generally with an interlocked grain relatively free of gum veins. Figure is lacking, but tallowwood has a distinctive lustre and greasy appearance.

The durability above ground is Class 1 with a life expectancy of over 40 years. Durability in-ground is Class 1 – with a life expectancy of 25 years +. Tallowwood is very durable and hard wearing with a Janka rating at 8.6 and up to F27 Structural rating.

Unseasoned F17
Seasoned F27
Toughness (Nm) 15 – 25 Nm
Green Medium
Dry Medium

Sustainably Sourced and Eco-Friendly

As a sustainably sourced Australian native hardwood, Tallowwood is an excellent choice for eco-conscious builders and designers. It is sourced from well-managed forests and, as a natural product, has a significantly lower carbon footprint than man-made alternatives like composite decking. Its longevity means fewer replacements are needed over its lifespan, further reducing environmental impact.

Maintenance and Care

While Tallowwood is renowned for its low maintenance, a little care goes a long way in preserving its beauty. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and a soft brush is all that is needed to remove dirt and grime. For those who want to maintain the timber’s original golden hue, a high-quality decking oil with UV protection should be applied annually. This simple routine will ensure your Tallowwood deck or floor remains a stunning feature for decades.

Tallowwood’s unique properties set it apart from other timbers. For a comparison, see how it stacks up against the extreme hardness of Ironbark or the unique aesthetics of Spotted Gum.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tallowwood

Tallowwood has a Janka hardness rating of 8.6 kN, making it a very hard and durable timber suitable for demanding applications like high-traffic flooring and outdoor decking.

Yes, Tallowwood has a high natural resistance to termites and decay, which contributes to its long lifespan and makes it a reliable choice for outdoor use.

To maintain its colour and protect the wood, it’s recommended to clean your Tallowwood deck with a stiff brush and mild detergent at least once a year. A quality decking oil should also be applied to protect against UV damage and retain its natural hue.

Yes, if left untreated and exposed to the elements, Tallowwood will naturally weather to a beautiful silver-grey colour. To preserve its original golden-yellow shade, regular oiling is required.

Yes, Tallowwood is sourced from sustainably managed Australian forests, making it an environmentally responsible choice for your building project.