Black Timber

Why choose black timber?

Timber finished in deep, dark tones allows designers to introduce contrast without sacrificing the organic warmth for which wood is famous. From black timber flooring that anchors open-plan living rooms to charred black timber cladding inspired by the Japanese shou sugi ban technique, darkened boards feel both timeless and on trend.

• Visual impact: High-pigment stains or heat-treating accentuate natural grain patterns, adding drama.
• Versatility: Works with industrial, coastal or minimalist schemes when paired with stone, concrete or brass.
• Practicality: Quality finishes hide minor scuffs better than pale boards and can improve UV resistance.
• Sustainability: Many Australian suppliers offer FSC-certified blackbutt timber or reclaimed hardwoods.

Popular applications

1. Floors that ground the room

Wide black timber floorboards create a seamless, gallery-like base. Specify engineered planks with a matte hard-wax oil to reduce reflections and maintenance.

2. Feature walls & ceilings

Vertical slatted panels in black wattle or black bean timber deliver acoustic benefits while disguising services. For larger expanses, consider timber wall & ceiling finishes rated for BCA fire compliance.

3. Indoor–outdoor transitions

Black butt timber decking finished with an exterior oil pairs perfectly with black pool fencing and spotted gum posts for dramatic alfresco areas.

4. Furniture & joinery

Think black timber dining tables, bar stools with powder-coated frames, or bespoke TV credenzas finished in low-sheen polyurethane.

Species & finishes guide

Blackbutt timber remains the go-to choice for high-traffic floors thanks to its Class 1 durability rating and consistent grain. If you need deeper chocolate tones, consider black walnut or thermally modified ash. For clients chasing a truly ebony look, a two-part black timber stain followed by a clear topcoat yields a uniform finish while still revealing texture.

Surface treatments

• Stain & seal: Water-based for low VOC; oil-based for richer tone.
• Heat treatment: Cooks sugars in the wood to darken fibres naturally and improve dimensional stability.
• Charred: Flame-treated surface carbonises the outer layer, increasing resistance to insects and decay.

Specification checklist

Before issuing final drawings:

• Confirm fire rating—particularly for external cladding on Class 2–9 buildings.
• Request slip-resistance data (P4 or higher) for flooring near wet areas.
• Ask suppliers for moisture-content certificates to avoid cupping or shrinkage.
• Verify the finish is compatible with under-floor heating if specified.

Installation & maintenance tips

Acclimatise boards on-site for at least 72 hours. Use concealed clip systems on facades to prevent water ingress through face-fixings. Indoors, a gentle pH-neutral cleaner will preserve matte coatings; avoid abrasive pads that leave grey swirl marks particularly visible on dark surfaces. Re-oil decking annually in high-UV zones.

Cost factors

Expect raw blackbutt to land between AUD $7,500–$10,000 per cubic metre depending on grade. Factory-finished black timber floorboards can range from $120–$200/m² installed. Remember to budget 5–10 % extra for wastage and on-site cutting.

Compliance & best practice

For exterior cladding, reference WoodSolutions Technical Design Guide 04 which outlines moisture management, fixing patterns and Australian climate considerations.

Explore related finishes

Still refining your palette? Compare rich wallpapers, tactile wall fabrics or artisanal decorative plaster to create layered, high-impact interiors.

Ready to source black timber? Browse the full catalogue below, message suppliers for samples, or request instant quotes to keep your project moving.