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Red Gum is best known and prized for its striking red colouring.
Image courtesy of WoodSolutions.
What is Red Gum?
Red Gum is a term used to refer to a number of different species, but the main species used for decking and pergolas is the River Red Gum. Red Gum is native to Australia and found all across the country, but Red Gums also make for good plantation timber due to their tendency for straight growth. As a result, plantations are found in appropriate climates across the world.
What does Red Gum look like?
Red Gum derives its name from its wood, the colour of which can range from a light salmon pink to an almost red-black shade. The timber itself can often contain many natural features in its grain such as cross graining and grub holes which can be visually appealing, but may also weaken the board in the long term. Red Gum can also be brittle and prone to splitting if it's not installed with care.
Red Gum can react badly under humid conditions if it's not sealed well, but it is rot and termite resistant.
Key properties
- Attractive graining and natural features blend this wood well with Australian yards.
- Striking colour range, vivid reds across the spectrum.
- Long lasting and durable, a native hardwood.
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What is Red Gum used for?
Red Gum is a versatile wood and can be used in decks and pergolas for just about everything from stumps to balustrades to decking. The wood is difficult to carve so ornamentation is difficult, but the main selling point of red gum is its beautiful colouration so this is not typically an issue.
Advantages
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As an expert enthusiast with a deep understanding of wood materials, particularly Red Gum, let's delve into the concepts covered in the article and provide comprehensive information.
Red Gum: An Overview
Red Gum is a term encompassing various species, but the primary one for decking and pergolas is the River Red Gum, indigenous to Australia. One of its standout features is its striking red color, ranging from a light salmon pink to almost red-black. This visual appeal is a result of its attractive graining and natural features, making it a coveted choice for various applications in construction.
Characteristics of Red Gum:
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Color and Appearance:
- The color spectrum of Red Gum is vivid, featuring reds across various shades.
- The timber exhibits natural features in its grain, including cross graining and grub holes, adding to its visual allure.
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Durability and Resistance:
- Red Gum is a native hardwood known for its longevity and durability.
- It is resistant to rot and termites, making it suitable for outdoor applications like decking and pergolas.
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Versatility:
- Red Gum's versatility is evident in its usage, ranging from stumps to balustrades to decking.
- While carving can be challenging due to the wood's difficulty, its exceptional coloration compensates for this limitation.
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Plantation Growth:
- Red Gum's straight growth makes it suitable for plantations worldwide, adapting to various climates.
Pros and Cons of Red Gum:
Advantages:
- Visually arresting coloration, contributing to aesthetic appeal.
- Attractive graining features enhance its overall visual charm.
- Demonstrates resistance to rot and termites, ensuring durability.
Disadvantages:
- Stringy grain makes the timber prone to splintering and splitting.
- Natural wood features, while visually appealing, may weaken the board's stability.
- Susceptibility to humidity changes requires proper sealing to prevent adverse reactions.
Best Uses for Red Gum:
Given its versatility, Red Gum finds applications in:
- Decks
- Pergolas
- Balustrades
- Stumps
In conclusion, Red Gum stands out as a visually appealing and durable wood option, especially suitable for outdoor construction projects. However, its unique characteristics, such as stringy grain and susceptibility to humidity, necessitate careful installation and maintenance.
