Karri timber is a hardwood timber native to Western Australia, growing in WA's southwest. Karri is a popular choice among builders, artisans and fine furniture designers, due to its strength, durability and distinguished reddish brown colour. The heartwood of Karri timber can also exhibit an orange or purple cast alongside its primary colour, making it a great choice for decking, high quality furniture, roof and structural applications such as wharf and bridge construction.

Deciding whether or not Karri timber is right for your next project can be a difficult decision, so we've put together a helpful guide to help you decide.

What is Karri Timber?

Karri timber, derived from the Eucalyptus diversicolor tree, is a lustrous timber native to the southwestern region of Western Australia.

Renowned for its impressive height, often reaching up to 90 meters, karri timber is one of the tallest hardwood species in the world and the tallest tree of Western Australia.

This hardwood timber possesses a distinctive colour, which ranges from pale pink hues to a distinctive red brown heartwood timber that is lighter in colour than Jarrah, and features a slightly interlocked or straight grain with a somewhat coarse texture. It’s sapwood can easily be distinguished from the heartwood, growing in a narrow band and is predominately a pale, creamy white colour.

The slow growing Karri tree thrives in the rich, well-drained soils (classified as Karri loam) of the Karri forest, benefiting from the region's high rainfall. The growth of Karri trees under these conditions results in a dense and moderately durable timber that can withstand various environmental factors.

Karri timber has a moderate weight, typically heavier than many softwoods but lighter than some other hardwoods. It tends to be stable, meaning it is less prone to warping and splitting when exposed to moisture and temperature changes. It’s ability to be cut into larger lengths as well as its stability and durability make it a favourable treated timber choice for numerous construction endeavours. Karri timber requires additional sanding due to its heaviness and density.

Additionally, the timber's ability to take on finishes allows it to be polished to a high sheen, showcasing its natural beauty and enhancing its appeal in both residential and commercial projects.

Due to its versatility, Karri timber is used in a wide array of applications.

Due to the absence of large knots and being naturally durable, builders often prefer Karri for flooring, cabinetry and structural projects. Additionally, Karri hardwood timber can be used in outdoor applications such as outdoor decking and fencing, where its resistance to the elements can be fully realized. The timber's robustness ensures that structures made from Karri can endure the rigors of outdoor conditions, making it a popular choice for landscape architects and builders alike. Karri timber is also used in railway carriage construction due to its durability.

Moreover, Karri's unique interlocked grain pattern and easily distinguished colour make it an attractive option for decorative purposes, allowing for intricate designs and detailed finishes that highlight the wood’s natural characteristics.

Advantages of Karri Timber

The advantages of using Karri timber extend beyond aesthetics. Many builders and woodworkers appreciate its unique properties, which contribute to a range of benefits in various settings.

Durability and Strength

One of the most significant advantages of Karri timber is its exceptional durability. Its natural resistance to wear and tear means that structures or furniture made from this wood will stand the test of time. This durability is especially beneficial in areas experiencing high foot traffic or exposure to the elements, where other types of wood may fail more quickly.

Furthermore, its strength allows it to support heavy loads, making it ideal for general construction purposes or structural applications such as beams, exposed framing and columns. Many builders trust Karri timber to provide long-lasting results for both residential and commercial projects.

In addition to its physical properties, Karri timber also exhibits remarkable stability, which minimizes the risk of warping or cracking over time. This characteristic is particularly advantageous in regions with fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels, ensuring that the integrity of the structure remains intact.

Aesthetic Appeal

Karri timber's rich colours, ranging from golden to reddish brown, and beautiful grain patterns add a sophisticated touch to any project. The warm hues can complement a variety of design styles, from traditional to contemporary, making it a versatile choice for designers and homeowners alike. The glossy finish, which can be enhanced with appropriate treatment, further elevates its appearance.

The natural variations in colour and texture mean that no two pieces of Karri timber are identical, allowing for a unique touch in every application. A dynamic visual experience can be created when the timber surface is exposed to light and designers often find that incorporating Karri timber into their projects not only elevates the overall design but also adds a sense of warmth and comfort that is hard to replicate with synthetic materials.

Versatility in Construction

Karri timber is suitable for a broad spectrum of uses, from structural uses to delicate furniture items.

In common construction applications, Karri can be used in both indoor and outdoor settings, with its resistance to decay making it perfect for environments where moisture is a concern. Its versatility is a significant advantage for builders, as it can address various design requirements and withstand rigorous conditions.

Whether used in flooring, cabinetry, joinery, panelling, outdoor decking, structural plywood, agricultural implements, pulp and paper, roofing timbers or various other applications, Karri timber continues to prove itself as a reliable and attractive timber option.

Disadvantages of Karri Wood Timber

Despite its advantages, Karri timber also has its drawbacks:

Supply

In 2021, the Western Australian Government announced a commercial native logging ban which included Karri timber sourced from Western Australia's Karri forests. This ban came into effect January 1, 2024 and has placed a strain on local Karri timber supplies.

Cost Considerations

One of the primary disadvantages of Karri timber is its cost. Due to a decreasing supply and being a hardwood, it generally comes with a higher price tag than softwoods, which can make budget-sensitive projects challenging.

Insect Resistance

Karri timber is not insect or termite resistant and the sapwood is known to be susceptible to termite attack. Due to this, Karri is not recommended for in ground use.

Heavy and Difficult To Work With

Karri Timber is a heavy timber and due to its heaviness and density, Karri wood can be hard to cut or drill and can't be readily glued, making it difficult to work with. Karri timber requires additional sanding when moulded due to its heaviness and density.

Maintenance and Care

Karri timber, while durable, requires some maintenance to ensure its longevity. Regular care, such as cleaning and finishing, is necessary to preserve its appearance and strength. Over time, exposure to sunlight and moisture can lead to fading or deterioration without proper treatment. In outdoor applications, protective coatings may need to be reapplied periodically to safeguard against weather damage and prolong its life.

If you're looking for a viable alternative to Karri timber such as Jarrah, Merbau, or Spotted Gum, contact the expert team at Pine Timber Products. As a leading timber supplier based in Perth WA, we stock a broad range of timber products and can assist you in finding the best timber to suit your needs.