5 Best Things About Blackbutt Timber: Timber Suppliers in Brisbane
TLDR – Quick Summary
Blackbutt timber is one of Australia’s most popular hardwoods – and for good reason. It’s tough, versatile and Aussie grown, with a natural look that suits all kinds of projects. Whether you’re building a deck, screening a pool area or just love timber with warm, golden honey tones, Blackbutt wood is a standout choice.
What Is Blackbutt Timber?
Blackbutt – also known as coastal blackbutt – is a native Australian hardwood grown throughout Queensland and New South Wales. It is commonly used in a variety of construction projects, most often decking and flooring.
1. It’s Strong! Blackbutt Timber Durability & Strength
Blackbutt wood is rated Durability Class 1 above ground, which means it’s highly durable and built to last.
Rest easy knowing that Blackbutt wood is not susceptible to the ‘lyctid borer’ – a pest that is known for attacking the sapwood of hardwoods like white mahogany and merbau. It’s also resistant to termites!
It’s strong enough for any project – whether you’re working on a deck, structural frame, external cladding, internal VJ panelling or feature screening wall. Blackbutt can handle the elements – even under the harsh Queensland sun.
2. It’s Aussie! Blackbutt Wood is Australian Grown
Blackbutt is grown right here in Australia, mainly along the coasts of Queensland and New South Wales. Choosing locally grown timber supports our forestry industries and ensures a lower carbon footprint compared to imported products.
It’s a true Aussie staple, used in everything from touching up heritage Queenslander homes to newly built homes. That local supply also means it’s readily available from timber suppliers in Brisbane – no long wait times at Narangba Timbers.
3. It’s Stunning! Natural Appearance Without Compromise
Most of the time, if you want a light-coloured wood for your project you’d need to use a softwood – which means compromising on quality. With Blackbutt, there’s no compromise! It’s a hardwood with colouring ranging from golden yellow to pale brown, with tones often described as ‘warm’, ‘golden’ and ‘honey’ in appearance.
4. It’s Fire Resistant! Blackbutt Timber – Go-To Choice in Bushfire Prone Areas
Not all timbers can handle fire-prone areas, but Blackbutt can. Thanks to its dense grain and low oil content, it’s naturally fire-resistant and carries a BAL29 rating. That makes it a go-to choice in bushfire zones, especially across regional Queensland and New South Wales.
Its performance under heat means you can build with more confidence – knowing your materials meet strict standards while still looking great.
Now, this doesn’t mean your deck will never catch fire! Because let’s be real, it’s still wood. But it can certainly take a lot more heat than other decking timbers without buckling under the pressure.
With a BAL29 rating, Blackbutt decking is approved for “Building in bushfire prone areas” as per Australian Building Standard AS3959.
5. It’s Versatile! Choose Blackbutt for any Timber Project
From backyard decks to high-end screening, Blackbutt does it all. It’s a popular pick for:
Blackbutt Timber Decking – long-lasting and naturally aesthetic, ideal for outdoor use
Blackbutt Screening – adds privacy and style to pool areas, gardens or any outdoor area. See our Blackbutt Screening used in this creative storage solution!
Structural Blackbutt F27 – trusted for its strength and stability, great for feature beams or rafters and other visible structures like pergola frames
It can be left to weather naturally, but we recommend staining to highlight its natural colour. Not only does staining keep the warm, golden tones vibrant for longer, but it also extends the lifespan of your deck.
Blackbutt timber continues to be a top choice for Brisbane builders and homeowners. With its natural beauty, strength and fire resistance – plus the fact it’s locally grown – it’s a timber that ticks every box. Ready to start your project with Blackbutt timber? Place your order online now or give us a call on 1300 477 024.
Blackbutt Timber FAQs
What is Blackbutt timber?
Blackbutt is a native Australian hardwood known for its golden colour, durability and fire resistance. The name ‘Blackbutt’ came about due to the tree’s appearance after a bushfire where the bottom – or ‘butt’ – of the tree is darkened. It’s widely used in construction and landscaping across QLD and NSW.
Blackbutt vs Spotted Gum – What’s the difference?
Both are high-performance Aussie hardwoods, but they look and behave a little differently. Blackbutt has a more consistent, warm honey tone, while Spotted Gum features deeper browns and a more varied grain pattern. Spotted Gum is slightly denser, but Blackbutt is often preferred for its lighter look and smoother finish – especially in modern designs. Good news for you – we sell both!
Is Blackbutt termite-resistant?
Yes – Blackbutt wood is naturally lyctid borer AND termite-resistant, making it a smart pick for outdoor and structural use.
Can I use Blackbutt timber around pools?
Absolutely. It’s dense and durable, making it suitable for decking and screening around pools. Just make sure it’s properly sealed with Universal Timber Oil to protect from mould and water damage.
