The Historically Rich River Red Gum For Your Floors

The River Red Gum is one of the best known trees in Australia. It covers a wide area and are evenly distributed in the various river systems of the region especially in the Murray-Darling river system. It grows in the eastern states from east of South Australia  and southwest of Western Australia. Its height ranges from medium sixed to a very tall woodland tree. It is easily identified by its whitish grey bark that looks continuously shedding from its entire trunk.



Because it thrives along the riverbanks, it is continuously soaked in water especially when the rivers are swollen. This particularly tree species has gotten used to the water that it can tolerate it for extended period. This is why the River Red Gum has been known to offer durability and strength while being aesthetically pleasing. This particular timber product has solidly earned a reputation of being very resistant to wear and tear. In fact, throughout Australia’s history, the tree has been used extensively for heavy construction. Back in the late 19th century, the tree has been used for bridges and street pavements. This was a very common picture in Sydney back then.



Its heartwood has a red or reddish brown shade with its sapwood distinctly lighter. The texture is substantially rough and evenly distributed with interlocking grains. It wears a very attractive ripple or fiddleback figure because of its interlocking gum veins. However, grub holes can be occasionally visible. Because its hardwood is very durable, it has various exterior applications. However, its sapwood is vulnerable to lyctid borer infestation but its heartwood is resistant to termite, as long as kept indoor and above the ground.



The River Red Gum is easily manipulated and shows tremendous versatility as can be seen in its many uses, such as heavy commercial construction, general framing, sleepers, panelling, flooring, joinery and furniture. However, it is not suited for steam bending since it is very hard to get the required straight-grained property of the wood. Moreover, if the grain is considerably straight, it can greatly resist surface checking especially when it is subjected to the elements.



If you want a timber product seeped in history, then the River Red Gum is a practical choice. Moreover, it is the ideal selection if you are going for a vintage look. You may want to bring back the beautiful and classic interiors of old with beautiful River Red Gum timber floorings.