Merbau decking is a quick-growing, lightweight wood with a minimum environmental impact.
It works well with all types of tools and stains well. In addition, it resists warping and holds nails more securely than most other woods used for decks. If you are planning on building a new deck or replacing some planks in your current timber deck, Merbau could be the perfect choice of material for your new project.
Merbau wood has many great features that make it attractive as a potential deck building material. It's a strong, easy to use wood that is less likely to warp than woods commonly used for decks. It requires minimal maintenance, and it can be stained to closely resemble other types of wood. It is resistant to moisture and can withstand high temperatures well, making it suitable for many climates. Its low density also makes it easier on the back when working with large boards.Merbau makes an excellent material for timber decking or timber flooring because of the greater usability, workability and durability of this timber species. It's harder than popular types of wood used for decks, like pine and cedar, but it doesn't have the higher price tag that redwood has. Merbau is characterised by its straight grain pattern and medium texture. It works well with all tools, but especially so with nail guns since nails go in easily and hold firmly.
Without proper care, Merbau can become greyish over time when exposed to sunlight, therefore it's important to use a high-quality sealant or oil on your finished Merbau deck to protect the natural colour of the wood giving it a beautiful appearance.Merbau is a hardwood, which means it's derived from broad-leaf trees. It's closely related to American cypress but has some key differences in appearance and uses. While they're both lightweight woods that are used for decks, Merbau is slightly redder in colour than cypress and can be more durable timber decking because it absorbs less water than its cousin.
Although Merbau timber doesn't require much maintenance, you should always use a high-quality sealant on this type of wood so the natural colour stays true over time. A premium exterior oil or natural oils or water-based oil work well to keep your finished project looking its best for years to come. If you were planning on staining the deck instead of sealing it, you should choose a product designed for use on the natural beauty of Merbau wood which requires minimum maintenance.
Merbau can be treated with either an exterior oil or a penetrating stain. However, if you plan on staining the deck instead of sealing it, make sure to choose a treatment appropriate for Merbau wood. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when applying any type of treatment to your decking material, since incorrect application could void its warranty.
Fantastic colour
Will not split
Has a medium texture
Resistant to decay and mould
Resistant to damage from insects
Difficult to dent or scratch
Requires very little maintenance
There are a few negatives behind using this great looking wood.
It's expensive wood. Expect to pay a bit more for Merbau lumber/planks. However, if you want a long-lasting deck that will look great year after year, then Merbau is well worth the investment.
Because Merbau is naturally resistant to decay, make sure to offer any untreated boards some extra protection before using them on your finished project. Otherwise, they may turn out more grey than you'd like.
While Merbau is naturally resistant to insect damage, it's not particularly resistant to physical damage. Take care when using power tools on this wood.
If you're building a deck or another project that requires lots of Merbau lumber such as outdoor decking, composite decking, or performing maintenance procedures, make sure to plan ahead so you don't run short before your job is finished.
Merbau lumber is naturally a lighter, coppery-brown colour that darkens as it ages. However, if you want to keep your wood looking its best for as long as possible you should always apply a high-quality exterior oil or natural penetrating stain to the surface so it doesn't fade over time.
You can leave Merbau untreated. However, the natural colour of this wood is a coppery brown that will darken considerably over time. To avoid this change in colour on your deck or any other project made from Merbau lumber, make sure to protect it with a high-quality exterior oil or penetrating stain before using it on your final product.
Yes. You should always protect Merbau with an exterior oil or penetrating stain to ensure it lasts as long as possible, whether for use in decks, outdoor furniture, timber flooring or other applications. Water often causes this wood to expand and shrink, which can cause splitting over time if precautions are not taken.
Merbau is a sustainable wood harvested in accordance with various standards for sustainability. This ensures that products certified as sustainably sourced are obtained from forests that meet strict environmental, economic and social criteria, including good management of resources to maintain biological diversity and encourage the conservation of soil, water and wildlife.
As a naturally resistant hardwood, Merbau will last for decades if it is properly maintained. This means keeping it oiled or penetrating-stained on an annual basis. Doing so will ensure that the wood does not fade over time and that it holds up against the elements as long as possible.
Merbau is a prefinished hardwood that contains an oil that helps to protect it from rot and insects. It's suitable for all climates but is especially durable in humid or coastal locations. Other hardwoods are made by combining plywood with lots of chemicals and different types of woods. It can be difficult to keep these types of decks protected over time.