Australia has traditionally imported hardwood deckings from Asia mainly from Malaysia, Indonesia and the Phillipines. Numerous species have been imported for decking but there has been a core of species that has made up the bulk of the imports.

The criteria for decking is that it is of high density, it is durability class 1 or 2 and is from the strength group S1 or S2. Some species are supplied air dried other species are best kiln dried.

Harwood decking's because of their high durability will last for a reasonable period of time without coating or protection but their service life is greatly enhanced if the decking is shielded from the weather and or adequately coated and regularly maintained.

Of the many species that have come to Australia over the years the following is the most commonly available, supply however does fluctuate and can have an impact on the selling price. The common sizes are usually 70 x 19 and 90 x 19, 140 x 19 and 140 x 25  the profile is usually plain faced with pencil rounded corners and the back is reeded to allow for air flow between the decking and the joists. The common grades are Select and Standard and the main difference is the exclusion of pinhole in select grade.

Common Decking Species

1. Merbau also know as Kwila
This is one of the most sort after of the imported hardwood decking's, it is Select grade, usually Kiln Dried but can also be air dried due to its low shrinkage. It is available in all sizes, it is brown to dark red in colour and will tend to bleed sap if left exposed, it will weather to grey if left unprotected.

2. Yellow Balau also known as Bangkirai or Selangan Batu
Also very durable as a decking, it is supplied Kiln Dried and it yellow to light brown in colour, as it is dried shrinkage rates are low to medium and a smooth finish is achievable is available in both sizes.

3. Kapur
Although Kapur is considered a durability class 3 timber in ground contact, but as a decking it shows general durability class 2 characteristics, light yellowish to pinkish in colour, it is supplied kiln dried and usually standard grade as pinhole is common in Kapur. Good machining qualities low shrinkage available in 70 x 19 mainly although some volumes of 90 x 19 from time to time.

4. Belian

Belian is available throughout Malaysia and Indonesia and is a very dense hardwood of durability class 1. It has only recently been imported into Australia as a decking. The heartwood is yellowish brown to reddish brown but darkens of exposure to the elements. Although very dense is easy to work but requires drilling near ends.

5. Imported Hardwood Floorings
Tongue and grooved flooring products from a range of imported timber species is available, refer to your local TKB branch for species available in your state.

Other decking species that may from time to time be available are

• Hopea
  
• Kempas
• Northern Box
• Peliwan