A closer look at timber selection: PARX launches white paper
Timber is playing an increasingly important role in nature-based play, offering warmth, character and a strong connection to the natural environment. But for councils and asset owners, the decision to use timber goes beyond aesthetics. Durability, species selection, processing, maintenance and expected service life all play a critical role in determining long-term performance.
A new white paper released by PARX explores the considerations behind selecting timber for public play environments, examining how species, processing methods and material characteristics can influence durability, maintenance requirements and service life.
The guiding principle for the publication is evidence-based specification noted Christy Gridley, white paper author and Head of Marketing & Growth at PARX.
“This guide is to help specifiers and asset owners understand what sits behind a durability claim, ask better questions of every supplier and specify with confidence.”
Key takeaways include:
- Why timber species selection matters for outdoor play
- The role of heartwood, processing and treatment in durability
- Understanding service-life claims and what they mean in practice
- Key considerations for councils, designers and asset owners
- How material selection can influence maintenance and whole-of-life outcomes
About Rustik
Proudly designed and manufactured by PARX, Rustik is a premium Australian hardwood timber nature play range built on more than 27 years of recreational innovation. Every element begins with sustainably sourced Ironbark from the Pilliga region of NSW — individually selected, cured and hand-crafted using the same sapwood removal methodology that has kept Queenslander homes standing for over a century. The result is a range that is naturally termite resistant, flood proven and backed by a 15-year structural guarantee.
Made in Australia, for Australia, Rustik is built to last for generations.
