Merbau is not only durable, but it is also a very desirable hardwood to work with. It cuts clean and fastens easily, making it one of the top choices to use for handymen and professionals everywhere. Treated pine decking is the alternative option for decking.Similarly, is merbau decking treated?
When properly treated, Merbau timber decking will serve you for as long as half a century.
Beside above, is merbau a hardwood? Merbau is a popular hardwood derived largely from areas in South East Asia, Papua New Guinea, the Pacific islands, and northern Queensland. With its high degree of natural durability and strength it is used externally in engineering, construction and marine applications.
Then, is Merbau termite resistant?
Merbau (pronounced MER-boo), also known as kwila or ipil, is a tropical timber which inhabits mangrove forests. The wood is naturally oily with a high tannin content, making it highly durable and resistant to weathering, decay and termites.
How long will merbau decking last?
15 to 40 years
Can you leave merbau decking untreated?
Overall, Merbau decking has been known to withstand up to 40 years of life in a home before becoming susceptible to decay. In some cases, decay may start around 15 years, which considering that the timber can be used untreated—is a long time.Does Merbau need to be oiled?
You need to weather your Merbau before coating – To find out more about weathering, click here. To coat your Merbau, you've got a few options. We'd recommended a decking oil. Furthermore, water based oils allow you to do the deck in a day, with significantly shorter drying times than Oil based.Does Merbau burn well?
Fact #5: It is Bushfire ResistantMerbau is one of the seven timbers that have been approved for use in regions of Australia that are known to be bushfire prone. It is a timber that does not catch fire easily, unlike many others that are more flammable.When should I oil merbau decking?
The instructions read: “allow new Merbau timber to weather for 6 to 8 weeks prior to applying Aussie Clear” and “… any excess oil remaining on the surface after 2 hours should be wiped off.” Over oiled Merbau deck.Does merbau decking bleed?
Answer: Merbau decking won't bleed on its own. When people talk about it bleeding they are referring to the tannin that washes out on exposure to rain. If it doesn't rain, or the decking is sheltered, it doesn't bleed.How do you seal Merbau timber?
Leave newly laid decking unfinished for up to two months so the tannins can be released then wash with a deck-cleaning product to de-oil the surface of the timber. Sand the timber boards and apply a finish to seal the deck. Wet timber thoroughly and mix a deck cleaning product with water to required ratio.How do I prepare merbau decking?
The more thorough, the better. If using an alternative such as Napisan, you can pour two cups into a bucket and half fill it using hot water. A stiff-bristled decking brush is the ideal tool to use to scrub the deck clean. Begin by lightly applying the cleaning solution to the deck with the brush.How do you maintain a merbau deck?
5 Before you Apply any decking all to your merbau timber decking always give the deck a wash & scrub with Oxalic Acid – This can be purchased from most hardware stores – You simply use a broom with a tough bristle brush to apply and leave for 10 – 15 minutes before hosing down. Tip.Will termites eat Merbau?
There is only one wood species in Indonesia which have a core so dense and hard that termites can't eat it. This species is Bangkirai. Close followers are Bojonegoro Teak, Merbau and Iron wood. However, as is the case with all trees the outer rings (called sap wood) are soft or softer than the core (heartwood).Can you put Merbau posts in the ground?
Merbau laminated posts are not intended for use in the ground. They normally have a 15 year warrant but that is completely void if they are put in the ground (failure of the fence is completely your risk) .How much is Merbau per sqm?
For instance, if you want a merbau deck, the average price for it is between $280 and $320 per square metre. If the deck is elevated, you'll need a balustrade in addition, which costs $320 per metre if it's made of glass, and $180 per metre if it's made of timber and wire.How much does Merbau cost?
Paal estimates you can expect to pay: $280 to $320 per square meter for Merbau decking .Is merbau a hardwood or softwood?
Merbau is a South East Asian rainforest hardwood that is also known as Kwila. It is a durable, dark reddish brown timber that is high in tannin content. Merbau may require repeat applications of Intergrain Reviva prior to coating. It is commonly used for decking, fences, flooring and panelling.What tree does Merbau come from?
Intsia bijug (Johnstone River teak, Pacific teak or scrub mahogany) is a timber that grows in the Southeast Pacific Rim which, of course, includes Northern Queensland. The tree is a species of flowering tree in the pea family and has a variety of common names including ipil, merbau and kwila.What oil do you use for merbau decking?
Haymes' Simply Woodcare Dexpress deck and timber stain is the best decking oil for Merbau timber. It's formulated for a long lasting finish that protects decking and weatherboards.Is merbau the same as kwila?
When it comes to timber decking, a lot of homeowners in the Brisbane area don't bother with any species of timber except Merbau, also known as Kwila. Most Merbau has small yellow mineral deposits, making it even more distinctive. The grain in Merbau is interlocked with straight elements.What is the best timber for outdoor use?
Woods for outdoor projects. The three most widely available and suitable exterior lumber choices, not treated with chemical preservatives, include Western red cedar, redwood, and cypress. 
David Craig 
