Most homes in the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle area have one of these eight species under their feet. Here is what makes each one special — and how Wayno treats them on the job. For industry standards and species data, see the Australian Timber Flooring Association.
Corymbia maculata · Janka Hardness: 11 kN
The king of Australian flooring timbers. Spotted gum has a distinctive interlocked grain with colours ranging from light brown to deep chocolate. Extremely hard-wearing and naturally resistant to termites. Sands beautifully and takes Bona finishes exceptionally well.
Common in: Most Lake Macquarie homes built 1960s-2000s
Eucalyptus pilularis · Janka Hardness: 9.1 kN
A versatile, pale-toned timber with a relatively even grain. Blackbutt ranges from golden yellow to light brown and suits both contemporary and traditional interiors. Responds well to sanding and produces a clean, uniform finish. Naturally bushfire resistant (BAL rated).
Common in: Modern builds, renovations across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie
Eucalyptus microcorys · Janka Hardness: 8.6 kN
A warm, honey-toned hardwood with a slightly greasy feel (hence the name). Tallowwood has excellent natural durability and is one of the most termite-resistant Australian timbers. It sands to a smooth, even surface and has a subtle grain pattern that lets the colour do the talking.
Common in: Older Lake Macquarie homes, verandahs, and outdoor areas
Eucalyptus spp. · Janka Hardness: 14 kN
One of the hardest timbers in the world. Ironbark ranges from deep red to dark brown and has a fine, even grain. It is incredibly dense and durable but requires experienced sanding — the hardness demands the right grit sequence and machine setup. The payoff is a floor that will outlast everything else in the house.
Common in: Heritage homes, high-traffic commercial spaces
Lophostemon confertus · Janka Hardness: 9.5 kN
A pinkish-brown timber with a fine, interlocked grain. Brush box is extremely stable and does not move much with humidity changes — ideal for the coastal climate around Lake Macquarie. It sands cleanly and takes water-based finishes very well.
Common in: 1940s-1970s homes in coastal NSW suburbs
Eucalyptus saligna · Janka Hardness: 9 kN
A medium-toned timber with pinkish hues and a moderately interlocked grain. Sydney blue gum is a popular choice for its consistent appearance and good workability. It sands smoothly and produces an elegant, even-toned result. Can show some tannin bleed, which is managed with Bona primer.
Common in: Renovations and new builds across the Hunter region
Syncarpia glomulifera · Janka Hardness: 8.9 kN
A dense, reddish-brown timber with fine grain and a reputation for being virtually impervious to marine borers and termites. Turpentine is found in many older homes across the Hunter and was widely used in the early 20th century. It sands well but needs a steady hand due to its density.
Common in: Pre-war homes, original floorboards in older suburbs
Callitris glaucophylla · Janka Hardness: 6.5 kN
A softer species with beautiful grain character and distinctive knots. Cypress pine has natural termite resistance due to its oil content and ranges from pale cream to rich gold. It is softer than the eucalyptus hardwoods, so it requires careful sanding technique and a durable finish like Bona Traffic HD to protect it.
Common in: Country homes, cottages, and character builds
Many homeowners are not sure what species their floors are. It is especially common when floors have been hidden under carpet for years. Wayno can identify your timber on-site and recommend the best sanding and finishing approach for that species.