Merbau is a hardwood native to areas in the South East Pacific such as Asia, Pacific Islands and northern Queensland. Otherwise known as ipil and kwila it is a tropical rainforest tree traditionally used for medicines by indigenous cultures.
Merbau is dense, strong and weather resistant. It has an oily resin and is greasy to touch. Rated class 1 (AS 5604) for durability and termite resistance in above ground applications it is a choice timber for external use. Merbau is also suitable for in ground use with a class 3 rating it has a probable life expectancy of between 5 to 15 years in ground.
The sapwood is pale yellow and the heartwood varies from a light to a dark reddish brown. There is some interlocking of the grain creating a wave like appearance. It has a coarse but even texture and overall displays the genuine warmth of a natural timber.
The strong demand for merbau in recent years has resulted in some illegal rainforest harvesting in Papua New Guinea and parts of South East Asia. However certified merbau is available in Australia sourced through government controlled managed forests.
Its properties make merbau a versatile timber used for both internal and external building and joinery material. It turns easily and its high strength and durability make it well suited for fence and verandah posts. It is also used widely for outdoor furniture due to its ability to withstand weather conditions.
Care of Merbau Products
Merbau will finish smoothly with sanding. It will paint, stain, and polish well. It is prone to tannin bleeding which creates red
stain which can be removed with a wood clean product. As with all external timber products it is strongly advised to follow the Recommended painting instructions.
Further information
- Technical specifications
- Material Safety Data Sheet