IRON BARK PROS AND CONS The common name “Ironbark” comes from the trees tendency to not shed its bark annually like many other eucalyptus, resulting in an accumulation of dead bark. This layer of bark protects the living tissue inside the tree from fires, and with a silvery-grey colour looks quite similar to iron metal and hence the name. Ironbark timber has an interlocked grain with a fine texture. Ironbarks popularity is ever increasing with more and more homes using the timber for decks, landscaping and cladding due to its high durability and fire resistance.
PROS High rot and termite resistance Very high durability, hardness and density Widely available Used for over 200 years in heavy construction Little tannin leach 1 of 7 hardwoods recommended for bushfire prone areas
CONS Hard to work Boards need to be pre-drilled Expensive Short oil life of decking due to density Mostly supplied in random lengths Red ironbark is Lyctid borer susceptible
Ironbark firewood has a very high natural resistance to rot due to chemistry of the tree which helps fight off fungus.