Spotted Gum boards black marks

[sabramohamed201]

Hi all,

I am considering using spotted gum in my new decking area, but I have noticed that many of the boards, at least those that I have seen, have black areas. These are not colour stains, but the texture is different and looks like burnt!
I am not bothered by it, and I like the spotted gum appearance.
Can you advise if such black areas are normal for the spotted gum, something to worry about, or considered a defect?
Photos attached,

[EricL]

Hello @sabramohamed201 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about spotted gum.

The black markings on your spotted gum boards are natural and part of the wood's unique character. Spotted gum often has dark streaks or patterns due to its high tannin content and natural grain variation, so these markings aren’t a defect or something to worry about. They can add a rich, distinct look to the timber, which many people appreciate in furniture or decking. 

However, if you prefer a more uniform look, you could hand-select boards or lightly sand and finish them to soften the contrast. The store has products like Cabot’s Decking Oil or Feast Watson Clear Varnish, which can help bring out the wood’s natural beauty while protecting it, making the darker areas blend more seamlessly with the rest of the timber.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

Here are some handy step-by-step guides:

• How to maintain a deck
   
• How to sand a deck 
   
• How to stain a deck

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric