Timber Flooring Tips
Rich in character and packed with performance, timber flooring transforms spaces into warm, inviting interiors that last for decades.
If you’re looking to transform your home with new timber flooring, chances are you’re tossing up between Ironbark and Spotted Gum — two hardwoods each bringing distinct qualities to your home.
Choosing between these two options requires more than just the colour — it’s about understanding how each performs in daily use, how they suit different interior styles, and which fits your lifestyle best.
Read on for tips to select the perfect timber flooring for your Perth home.
When deciding, consider the priorities for your home:
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Ironbark offers unmatched strength and density, making it a premium choice for households seeking a floor that withstands decades of heavy use.
Its rich colour palette and naturally hard-wearing nature make it a standout in both traditional and contemporary settings.
Spotted Gum brings distinctive colour variation and a beautiful grain pattern that complements modern, rustic, and coastal interiors alike. It’s durable yet easier to work with than Ironbark, making it an appealing option.
Ironbark’s density and hardness translate into minimal ongoing upkeep. Surfaces maintain their finish longer, meaning fewer re-sands or recoats across the years.
Spotted Gum, while still durable, benefits installers with quicker fitting due to its lighter weight and workability, reducing installation time and labour costs.
Initial investment in Ironbark tends to be higher because of its premium status and challenging installation requirements. Over time, however, lower maintenance needs can balance the budget.
Spotted Gum offers a more accessible entry price, yet may require more frequent refinishing, slightly increasing long-term costs.
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As one of the hardest timbers available, Ironbark easily withstands heavy foot traffic, impacts, and abrasion, maintaining structural integrity for decades. Spotted Gum holds up well under regular use but can show wear sooner in high-traffic areas.
Lifespan remains long for both when properly maintained, though Ironbark edges ahead for overall toughness.
Ironbark’s rich, consistent tones create a timeless elegance suited to classic and luxury interiors.
Spotted Gum appeals to those who appreciate character and variation, with grain and colour shifts that ensure no two boards are alike — perfect for contemporary, rustic, or coastal settings.
Both timbers can be sourced sustainably; however, Ironbark’s density increases transport weight, contributing to a higher carbon footprint.
Spotted Gum, often plantation-grown or from responsibly managed forests, is lighter and therefore more efficient to ship, offering a slightly greener profile.
Due to its hardness, Ironbark feels very firm underfoot, which some may find less comfortable for prolonged standing. Spotted Gum’s slightly softer nature makes it more forgiving, providing a balance between durability and comfort.
Ironbark requires advanced skills and specialised tools to cut and fit accurately, making experienced installers essential.
Spotted Gum’s easier workability broadens installation possibilities, including complex layouts or renovations with tighter deadlines.
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| Factor | Ironbark Highlights | Spotted Gum Highlights |
| Efficiency | Minimal upkeep due to hardness and wear-resistance | Faster installation thanks to easier handling |
| Cost | Higher upfront investment, lower lifetime maintenance | Moderate purchase price, slightly higher maintenance costs |
| Durability & Lifespan | Extremely hard, decades of performance with minimal wear | Strong and resilient, though slightly less durable |
| Aesthetics | Deep, uniform tones for a sophisticated look | Wide colour variation with unique grain patterns |
| Environmental Impact | Sourced from responsibly managed forests, but heavier carbon footprint due to density | Often plantation-grown or sustainably harvested, lighter to transport |
| Comfort Underfoot | Very firm underfoot, less forgiving | Slightly softer feel for improved comfort |
| Installation Suitability | Challenging due to density, requires skilled labour | Easier cutting and fitting, suitable for more varied projects |
Ironbark’s exceptional density makes it a stronger contender for busy spaces such as hallways, kitchens, and living areas. Its ability to resist dents and scratches over time ensures the surface remains pristine despite heavy use.
Spotted Gum still performs well but may show signs of wear sooner in very high-use environments.
For expansive interiors where visual uniformity creates a seamless look, Ironbark’s consistent tones work beautifully. The deep hues bring warmth and cohesion to wide, open areas.
Spotted Gum, with its colour variation, offers a more dynamic appearance, adding movement and texture across large spaces.
Spotted Gum’s natural resistance to moisture movement makes it particularly well-suited to coastal or higher-humidity environments.
Its grain structure adapts slightly better to changes in ambient moisture levels, reducing the risk of cupping or warping.
Ironbark remains highly durable but benefits from controlled indoor humidity for optimal performance.
When working with existing subfloors, Spotted Gum’s lighter weight and easier workability simplify the installation process. Less strain on the structure and easier cutting make it an efficient choice for retrofit projects.
Ironbark’s weight and density may require reinforcing subfloors or more complex preparation.
In spaces designed to impress — such as formal dining rooms or high-end foyers — Ironbark’s rich, uniform tones deliver a premium look. Its density also means the finish maintains its polished appearance longer between maintenance cycles.
Spotted Gum still provides striking visual appeal but leans towards a more casual or organic aesthetic.
Both Ironbark and Spotted Gum deliver durability, beauty, and lasting value, yet they shine in different ways.
Ironbark’s strengths lie in its unmatched density, resistance to wear, and rich, uniform tones, making it ideal for high-traffic areas, formal interiors, and those seeking minimal long-term maintenance.
Its drawbacks include a higher upfront cost, heavier weight, and a more challenging installation process.
Spotted Gum offers versatility with its distinctive grain, varied colouring, and easier installation. It suits coastal environments, renovations, and homeowners seeking a more natural, organic look.
While it remains highly durable, it’s slightly softer than Ironbark and may require more maintenance over its lifespan.
When deciding, consider the priorities for your home:
Allen Brothers Flooring has built a reputation over more than three decades for delivering exceptional craftsmanship, precise installation, and expert advice that ensures homeowners avoid costly mistakes.
Every project receives our full attention — from selecting the right timber to applying premium finishes from leading brands such as Bona, Osmo, and Whittle Wax.
Whether your heart is set on the enduring strength of Ironbark or the striking character of Spotted Gum, our team will guide you through every step. Take the first step towards a floor that’s a true reflection of your style and built to last for decades.
Contact Allen Brothers Flooring today for expert advice, premium-grade materials, and a free, no-obligation quote.
