Are you planning to use Merbau wood for your house floors or furniture? Whatever it is, look before you leap. You can easily get it from any fencing and timber supplier in Melbourne.
Merbau Wood is a solid and durable hardwood made from a big tree and found in places like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. People often use it to make furniture and decks.
So, let’s know its common uses, advantages, and disadvantages.
Common Uses
Merbau wood is great for making floors, decks, furniture and special wooden items. It’s really strong and durable; that’s why people use it to make things tough. It’s also fantastic for making musical instruments, especially guitars.
Musicians use it for electric, acoustic and classical guitars because it gives a strong bass sound, and the notes last a long time.
Advantages And Disadvantages
1. Appearance:
Merbau wood is fantastic because it looks great even without any special finishing. Its dark brown colour with small yellow spots distinguishes it from other woods.
2. Durability:
Merbau wood is incredibly robust, boasting an average lifespan of approximately 40 to 50 years. Its durability extends to a commendable 20 to 25 years when employed for decking.
3. Rot-resistant:
The wood is naturally resistant to rot, weather and insects because it has natural oils that protect it. It is one of the reasons for its durability and low maintenance.
4. Low maintenance:
Another cool thing about Merbau wood is its low maintenance. Unlike some other woods that need attention every 6 to 8 months, Merbau only needs maintenance once a year.
Disadvantages
1. Expensive:
Merbau is a pricey wood. It’s highly sought after, making it one of the more costly options. Many other types of wood or decking materials that are more budget-friendly are available.
2. Workability:
Because of its high density and interlocked grain, working with Merbau can be difficult. The wood is difficult to cut or saw, making it unsuitable for DIY projects or construction.
3. Fade Over Time:
Merbau’s beautiful dark brown colour tends to turn grey as time passes. To prevent this natural fading, it’s recommended to oil or seal the Merbau wood regularly, adding an extra step to its maintenance.
4. Environmental Concern:
Merbau is a premium hardwood imported from different parts of South East Asia. However, it may lead to environmental issues and deforestation. It is important to check the source of your Merbau timber and whether it is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council or not.
Elite Timber And Hardware- Your Go To Place For Merbau Decking In Melbourne
Transform your projects with the unparalleled beauty and strength of Merbau Wood, available at Elite Timber and Hardware- your go-to supplier in Melbourne. At “Elite Timber and Hardware”, we fully understand the benefits and downsides of using Merbau and other decking materials.
Experience our hassle-free shopping with our convenient delivery services, bringing the excellence of Merbau Wood right to your doorstep.
Contact Elite Timber and Hardware and get your Merbau decking in Melbourne today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary benefits of Merbau?
The primary benefit of Merbau is its durability against extreme temperatures and the natural oils present in it that prevent it from cracking and shrinkage. Additionally, it is termite and fungus-resistant and suitable for use in fire-prone areas.
What is the durability of Merbau?
Merbau is a hardwood that mainly comes from South East Asia and some parts of Queensland. The wood is very strong and durable and can easily last up to 40 years. Because of its natural durability and high strength, it is extensively used in construction and engineering.
Is Merbau a good quality wood?
Merbau is one of the most durable and hardest woods available for decking. Its Janka hardness grade is between 1,900 lbf to 2,340 lbf. This hardness grade is based on the origin of the wood and how old it is. Further, it is resistant to dents, wear and tear and scratches because of its sturdiness.
