Tasmanian oak is referred to as alpine ash, mountain ash, mountain white gum, blue leaf and Australian oak. It is a premium Australian hardwood, compromised of three species that are grown on the Tasmanian Mountains. This oak is ideal for indoor furniture, engineered oak flooring and panelling.
Generally, the term is used for referring to three Eucalypt hardwood species that are almost identical. E. Delegatensis or alpine ash is found at higher altitudes, E. Regnans or mountain ash is available in damp areas, and E. Oblique or messmate grows in wet forests and certain dry areas.
Features
Technical
Tasmanian oak products look classy after they’ve been finished and polished. Unlike other wood, the material is easy to paint on and can be affixed with glue. Moreover, rails, screws and components can be inserted into the product easily, which makes it satiable for constructing door frames, windows and other products.
Visual
Tasmanian oak is light toned, featuring subtle hues that range from straw to a pale reddish brown. Intermediate shades also include pink and cream shades. Tasmanian oak is known for its excellent staining characteristics because of which it can be matched with other products. Colour, texture and grain vary naturally, so they aren’t considered to be a defect.
Workability
Tasmanian oak is a stable and strong timber and is quite easy to work with. But it doesn’t steam bend well because it often comprises a mix of different species.
- Boring – can easily be drilled into; the resulting holes are clean and sized accurately
- Sawing – Can be cut cleanly by applying a moderate force
- Finishing – can be modified to a smooth and lustrous surface; can also be stained
Uses
1. Joinery
Tasmanian Oak joinery products add a luxurious touch and a unique elegance to indoor furniture and spaces. They are often used for exterior design as well, introducing a modern and stylish touch. Tasmanian oak products are often utilized in various applications such as indoor furniture, door frames, window frames, cabinets and moulding. Exterior applications include railings, eaves and posts.
When being used for indoor furniture and applications, Tasmanian oak should be selected with care, ensuring that the chosen timber is suitable for the particular product and finishing. Also, the material must be easily available at an economical range.
Tasmanian oak can either be used alone or can be used in conjunction with other timber species like spotted gum and Australian cypress. Generally, solid oak, characterized as clear finish grade, is used. Paint grade material is also available in the market and is often combined with a composite material such as glulam or MDF.
Tasmanian oak joinery is found in a wide range of designs, comprising of several products to choose from. Cabinetry is also considered under joinery and usually includes benches, cupboards and other similar indoor furniture. Cabinetry is also available in clear finish and paint grades.
2. Interior Panelling
Internal panelling is also referred to as linings and boards. These cover walls and ceilings, generating a stylish and dramatic look. Internal panelling made from Tasmanian oak exists as both solid timber and engineered hardwood products. They feature a durable and lasting surface; hence, they are ideal for use in high impact areas.
Generally internal panelling products are only used for their appearance, so there are usually no structure requirements to be met. Moreover, installation is easy, making them a suitable choice in many instances.
3. Mouldings
Tasmanian oak mouldings are elegant and classy, especially when paired up with Australian hardwood or engineered oak flooring. Bringing in warmth and beauty into any space, oak mouldings exist in traditional and contemporary designs. They are widely utilised for decorating floors, windows and indoor furniture. Considering decorative mouldings, the most popular are ceiling roses, cornices and skirtings.
Just like other Tasmanian oak products, mouldings are durable and versatile, and they enhance the aesthetics of any interior. They can be installed through quick processes; many of these just stick to the wall if an adhesive is applied. A variety of finishing options also exist that can be customized to your needs and the overall appearance of the space.
4. Rails and Balustrades
The beauty, versatility and strength of Tasmanian oak make this material a perfect choice for handrails. Since it’s durable and can be moulded, a wide range of unique designs can be created. Generally, Tasmanian oak handrails are coated with lacquer so as to emphasize their natural beauty. If you care for them properly, they will surely last for years.
5. Flooring
Tasmanian oak features versatility, adaptability and durability for finished and structured flooring applications. They are perfect for any interior space because of their warmth and beauty. Tasmanian engineered oak flooring and other similar options add to the sophistication of the space.
Go to The Ash’s for website more great advice on interior furniture, premium Australian hardwood flooring and so on.
About the Author:
Simon Roth is an entrepreneur and self-proclaimed jack of all trades. Simon has experience in the building and home renovation industry and he knows what it takes to knock out a successful project whether it be commercial or residential. Another niche for Simon is travel and outdoors leisure, including sporting equipment and bikes. A big kid at heart if it goes fast, bounces, slides or you can climb it Simon has put it to the test.