When it comes to decking, picking the right timber and size is essential. For us, creating a space that reflected our coastal lifestyle while staying low-maintenance was key. I’ll admit, though—I handed over most of the decking decisions to the builder (aka, my husband). My only requests? No red or orange hues, a timber that would gracefully grey over time, and a wider board for a more open feel. With those pointers, he found the perfect fit for our home: Big River Group’s Grey Ironbark in 138x22mm boards.

Here’s why this was exactly the decking choice we needed.

Why Grey Ironbark?

To start with, availability played a big role in our decision. Grey Ironbark is widely accessible across Australia, making it an easy choice for both our budget and timeline. But beyond availability, it’s one of Australia’s toughest timbers. Its high durability made it perfect for our outdoor setup, where it would need to withstand everything from the hot sun to seasonal rain.

Grey Ironbark has a natural resilience due to its dense grain and natural oils, which make it well-suited for weathering sun, rain, and temperature shifts.

Best of all, it weathers over time into a beautiful silvery-grey patina. This means less maintenance and no need for frequent staining, creating that naturally aged, timeless look I was after.

You can explore more about Grey Ironbark decking here on Big River Group’s website.

Why Go Wide with the 138x22mm Boards?

This was all about achieving the right aesthetic for our space. We wanted a Bahamas-inspired vibe that felt open and connected to our coastal surroundings. The wider 138mm board not only gives our deck a spacious, boardwalk-like feel but also fits seamlessly with the laid-back, beachside look. The thicker 22mm size also adds a sense of solidity and durability to each step, which we love for both style and function.

Pro Tip for Your Decking Choices

If you’re trying to decide on decking timber and size, here’s a tip: be clear with your builder about the look and maintenance level you want. A great builder can offer suggestions or, even better, contact suppliers like Big River Group to find timber that matches your vision and stands up to local climate conditions.

For us, Big River Group’s Grey Ironbark met every requirement—function, style, and low upkeep. Now, our decking not only enhances our home’s aesthetic but will also serve us for years to come.