Most likely Australian Red Cedar (alternatives: Queensland maple or a dark-stained cedar substitute).
Toona ciliata · Hardwood; Australian native timber.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; Australian native timber.
- Origin
- Eastern Australia, including New South Wales and Queensland; historically common in colonial-era buildings.
- Hardness
- Approximately 700 lbf Janka; Soft classification.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; reasonable interior decay resistance but limited untreated ground-contact/weather durability and variable insect resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Strongly wavy/interlocked grain, producing prominent narrow ribbon or flame figure; likely quarter-sawn or unusually figured face grain.
Color & Appearance
Aged reddish-brown to deep chocolate heartwood with darker oxidation and excellent luster; sapwood is pale cream. Red cedar typically darkens and browns with age.
Hardness (Janka)
Approximately 700 lbf Janka; Soft classification.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; reasonable interior decay resistance but limited untreated ground-contact/weather durability and variable insect resistance.
Value & Age
About A$8–20 per board foot equivalent for sound, figured reclaimed stock; exceptional wide boards may exceed this.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The 1915 building date supports roughly 110 years of service, though the timber itself may be older and the visible surface appears heavily aged or oxidized.
Common Uses
Historic framing, joinery, doors, furniture, cabinetry, mouldings, boat interiors, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Eastern Australia, including New South Wales and Queensland; historically common in colonial-era buildings.
Workability
Generally easy to saw, plane, sand, glue, and nail; interlocked grain can tear out during planing, so use sharp cutters and light passes.
Finish Recommendations
Clean gently, sand progressively, then use shellac, lacquer, oil, or clear polyurethane; a sealer coat helps even absorption and preserves contrast.
Notable Features
Lightweight, dimensionally stable, aromatic when freshly cut, and valued for its strong ribbon figure and warm aging color.
Notes
framing timber from 1915 house in NSW