What is brushwood (Melaleuca) and where does it come from?
Referred to as simply 'the sticks' central Australia is home to the salt loving Melaleuca and Tea Tree that have been used for thatching and fencing since the early 1970's. It is both the naturally high salt and oil content that protects Melaleuca species from decay. These plant species have the ability to coppice (resprout from a lignotuber) after harvesting making the Melaleuca species both a renewable and sustainable resource.
How long does brushwood last outdoors?
Brushwood fencing can last up to 20 years if situated in a reasonably protected area. To ensure the longest life for your fencing maintain adequate ventilation around the brushwood and do not allow the garden soil to be higher than the bottom of the brushwood fence. Also replace the top rolled cappings if they start to decay as the capping protects the fence panels from the weather.
How long does Melaleuca thatch last?
Melaleuca Uncinata can last up to 15 years if situated in a reasonably protected area. To ensure the longest life for your thatch roofing maintain adequate ventilation around the roof and do not allow a build up of debris or leaves as this can reduce longetivity. .
Does Melaleuca fences or roofs need much maintenance?
Melaleuca Uncinata requires no maintenance for the life of the product. Thatch roofs made from Melaleuca can be repaired or re-thatched unlike imported tropical products that require complete replacement.
Do bush products attract insects or ants?
Both brushwood and tea tree contain natural oils and salts that repell insects, spiders, snails and ants! It is the natural oil and high salt content that aids in the protection of the structure.
Does brushwood or tea tree loose its colour or crack over time?
Both brushwood and tea tree retain their good looks for the life of the product. Unlike bamboo or imported products, Australian bush materials will withstand the harshness of the Australian climate for many years without any maintenance or added protectants.
Are imported materials suitable for use in Australian conditions?
Architectural Bush Products
Imported Tropical Materials will not last in the harsh Australian climate - otherwise they would grow here! Alang Alang thatch (pictured) has a lifespan of only 3 to 5 years under the Australian sun. After which time it decays, attracting insects and spiders and becomes a fire risk. Alang Alang thatch is made from Imperata cylindrica, commonly known as blady grass. This grass has no fire resistance and can even burn when green. It is very thin providing poor durability, heat insulation and retains minimum strength.
