Tali Hardwood Decking
Heavy-duty hardwood decking for demanding outdoor environments.
Tali is one of the hardest and most durable hardwood decking species in the JSC range. With Class 1 durability, exceptional strength, and outstanding resistance to decay and insects, Tali is well suited to residential, commercial, waterfront and high-traffic applications where long-term performance matters.
Its rich reddish-brown tones, distinctive interlocked grain and dense structure create a bold natural finish that stands up to New Zealand's toughest conditions.
What is Tali Decking?
Tali (Erythrophleum suaveolens) is a dense tropical African hardwood renowned for its strength, durability and outstanding mechanical properties. Naturally resistant to decay and insect attack, it has become a trusted choice for heavy-duty outdoor structures including decking, boardwalks, bridges, poles and marine applications.
The heartwood ranges from orangey yellow-brown through to rich reddish-brown depending on the region of origin, while its interlocked grain creates a distinctive natural appearance that develops character over time.
JSC's Tali is FSC® 100% certified, providing confidence that the timber is sourced from responsibly managed forests with sustainable harvesting practices
Tali Decking
Benefits of Tali Hardwood Decking
Exceptional Durability:
Tali is a Class 1 durable hardwood, making it one of the most durable decking species available. Its natural resistance to decay and insects makes it suitable for exposed outdoor environments and demanding commercial projects.
Outstanding Strength:
With impressive density and mechanical performance, Tali is designed for applications where structural performance and longevity are essential. Its hardness makes it ideal for decks that experience high pedestrian traffic or challenging environmental conditions
Best for:
Best for Commercial & Marine Environments. Tali has long been used in bridges, poles, sleepers and marine structures thanks to its resilience in both freshwater and seawater environments. This proven performance translates exceptionally well into premium decking applications.
Aethetics:
Tali features a rich reddish-brown heartwood with an attractive interlocked grain and coarse texture. Every board is unique, creating a character-rich deck that complements contemporary and natural landscapes alike.
Eco-Friendliness - Responsibly Sourced:
JSC Tali is FSC® 100% certified, supporting responsible forestry and sustainable sourcing practices
Tali Decking
Tali Decking Specifications
Sizes and Profiles:
Tali decking is available in a range of standard decking profiles and custom sizing options to suit residential, commercial and architectural projects. Download the latest profile chart for available sizes.
Density and Strength:
As one of the densest hardwoods in the JSC range, Tali offers exceptional mechanical properties including:
- Density: approximately 900 kg/m³
- Modulus of Rupture: 154 MPa
- Modulus of Elasticity: 19.4 GPa
- Janka Hardness: 13 kN
These properties make Tali ideal where maximum durability and strength are required
Suitable Applications:
- Residential decking
- Commercial decking
- Boardwalks
- Waterfront structures
- Bridges
- Marine environments
- Heavy-duty outdoor structures
Maintenance Requirements:
Tali decking requires only routine cleaning to keep the surface free from dirt and debris. Over time, exposure to sunlight and the elements will naturally soften the timber's rich reddish-brown tones, allowing it to weather to an attractive silver-grey patina.
Tali Decking
Installing Tali Decking
Preparation:
Store decking flat, dry and protected from the weather prior to installation. Ensure adequate ventilation beneath the deck and follow all JSC installation recommendations.
Fixings:
Due to Tali's high density, stainless steel fixings should be used, with all fixing holes pre-drilled before installation to minimise splitting and achieve the best finish.
Ventilation:
Good airflow beneath the deck is essential to promote drying, reduce moisture build-up and maximise long-term performance.
Our sales and technical team are happy to provide further guidance to ensure accurate and proper installation of this product. Flick us an email or give us a call.
Maintenance Tips
- Sweep regularly to remove leaves and debris.
- Keep gaps between boards free from build-up to promote drainage.
- Wash periodically using a soft brush and mild detergent.
- Avoid high-pressure water blasting.
- Inspect annually for general wear and ensure fixings remain secure.
- Where coatings are used, follow the coating manufacturer's maintenance schedule for recoating.
Natural hardwood will continue to weather over time. The final appearance will vary depending on exposure, maintenance and environmental conditions
Cost Considerations
While Tali represents a premium hardwood decking investment, its exceptional durability and strength deliver lasting value over the life of the project. Its ability to perform in high-traffic, commercial and exposed environments can reduce the need for replacement, making it a practical long-term choice.
Tried Our Tali Decking? We'd Love Your Feedback!
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Hardwood decking should be cleaned annually. Use a soft brush with water and mild detergent. Do not direct high pressure water on any part of the hardwood timber. Where a coating is applied, periodic recoating is required to ensure its integrity is sustained. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding hardwood chemical runoff. The amount and characteristics of the runoff will depend on the species, dryness of the boards when installed and how exposed the deck is to the weather.
- Regularly sweep or use a leaf blower to clear away dirt and leaf build-up. Pay special attention to maintaining gaps between boards, especially over joists, to prevent debris from accumulating and retaining moisture.
- Inspect at least annually, check for signs of wear, rot, or damage.
- Re-coat as recommended by the coating manufacturer, following their specified timeframes and application instructions.
To prevent moisture build-up that can lead to discolouration or rotting, move potted plants or objects placed directly on the deck periodically, or elevate them to avoid prolonged direct contact with the decking. These items can trap moisture underneath, preventing the timber from drying out properly.
Yes. Its Class 1 durability, high density and exceptional strength make Tali well suited to commercial decking, boardwalks, wharfs, and public spaces where durability is critical.
Yes. Tali has a long history of use in both freshwater and seawater environments, making it an excellent choice for waterfront decks, jetties and marine applications.
Like all hardwood decking, Tali benefits from regular cleaning to remove debris and maintain drainage. Where coatings are applied, periodic recoating should follow the coating manufacturer's recommendations.