Choosing the right timber for your stair treads affects appearance, durability and how the finished staircase feels underfoot. Here’s a practical comparison of three popular options.
### Blackbutt
- Australian hardwood
- Light to medium brown with subtle grain
- Very hard and durable
- Excellent all-rounder for both internal and some external applications
- Takes stain and clear finishes well
### Spotted Gum
- Australian hardwood
- Richer, often darker tones with distinctive figuring
- Extremely hard and tough
- Highly regarded for high-traffic areas
- Beautiful natural variation
### American Oak
- Imported hardwood
- Classic lighter colour with prominent grain
- Slightly softer than the Australian options but still very suitable for stairs
- Popular for a cleaner, more contemporary look
- Consistent appearance
### Quick Decision Guide
- Want maximum toughness and Australian timber → Spotted Gum or Blackbutt
- Prefer a lighter, classic look → American Oak
- High-traffic family home → Spotted Gum or Blackbutt
- Matching existing oak furniture or floors → American Oak
All three species are available across our tread, riser and stringer ranges so you can keep the entire staircase consistent.