The 2026 Sydney Hardwood Guide: Spotted Gum vs Blackbutt vs Merbau — Which Timber Actually Survives Our Summers
Sydney decks deal with more than everyday foot traffic. Long periods of sun, summer storms, coastal humidity and repeated wet-and-dry cycles can expose weaknesses in poorly chosen or poorly maintained timber. Spotted Gum, Blackbutt and Merbau are three familiar hardwood choices, but they do not behave exactly the same way. Choosing by appearance alone can…