Wooden Piles in Marine Construction: Selecting the Right Timber for Long-Term Coastal Defence

If you have ever stood on a harbour pier or coastal boardwalk, chances are the structure beneath your feet is supported by timber piles. Used for centuries in marine construction, these piles offer natural resilience and strength when properly built, but not all timber is made equal. In salt-heavy, tide-shifting environments, choosing the right species makes all the difference to the success of your marine piles.

So, what makes one timber species better than another for withstanding waves, rot and marine borers? In this no-fuss guide, we break down what you need to know.

What Makes a Timber Species Suitable for Marine Use?

If you are on the hunt for the perfect marine timber species for piles, there are a few characteristics about which you need to be aware:

• Durability: Your timber should be naturally resistant to decay and rot, especially when constantly submerged or in contact with water. This requires a Use Class 5 timber species.
  

• Density: Typically, denser timber withstands impacts from load-bearing better, and can also be harder for marine borers to attack.
  

• Sustainability: Looking to earn a few extra green points for your marine project? Ensure your marine timber is sourced sustainably by checking for FSC or PEFC certification, or choosing to source your timber from EcoChoice.

Best Timber Species for Marine Piles

We are used to working with clients on marine projects, so we have a whole host of timber recommendations ready to go. Some of our top picks include:

Greenheart

One of the most durable species in the world, Greenheart is a heavyweight timber champion. Native to South America, it is naturally resistant to rot, wear and marine borers—even without treatment. Its density can be challenging to work with, but for exposed marine structures, it is hard to beat.

Ekki

Ekki is incredibly dense and hard-wearing, making it another top choice for coastal defence. It can withstand heavy loads, wave action and marine pests with ease. Expect a long service life—often 50 years or more in the right conditions.

Opepe

Opepe is a hardwood known for both its looks and strength. It is naturally durable in marine and freshwater conditions, and holds its own against fungal decay and insect attack. Opepe also resists impact damage well, making it a solid option for marine piles, fendering and mooring posts.

Angelim Vermelho

Angelim Vermelho is a dense South American hardwood which has earned its place in heavy-duty construction, including marine use. It has good resistance to abrasion and mechanical stress, with excellent durability.

Cloeziana

Not as widely known but increasingly popular, Cloeziana is an Australian hardwood which we champion at EcoChoice. It has a super high density and excellent natural resistance to rot and marine borers, while also boasting a hefty strength which makes it great for load-bearing.

Start a Marine Timber Order

Any of the timber species we have mentioned will be a perfect fit for marine piles, with an ideal blend of durability and strength. All our timber is sourced from responsibly managed forests, giving you the peace of mind that you are making the sustainable choice. To learn more, find the right timber species for your unique marine project or start an order, get in touch with our team today.