Merbau Timber

Merbau (Kwila)

(Intsia bijuga)

Also known as Kwila, Ipil or Vesi, Merbau is a rainforest species predominantly coming from south-east Asia region (Malaysia, Indonesia & Phillipines).

After cutting, the timber turns to a dark reddish brown colur, and being quite a durable timber, it is very commonly used as a decking timber. It can also be used for flooring, stairs, handrails and other joinery applications.

As a “rainforest” timber, it should be used with some discretion. The ugly truth about Merbau timber is that it causes deforestation of rainforests. Unsustainable logging practices over the years have caused quite an impact on the environment. There are many other local timbers that can be used as an alternative to this species.

Premium-quality Merbau Timber for Your Projects

What is a Merbau timber? 

The Merbau timber, also known as the Kwila timber, is a highly regarded hardwood native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. It is celebrated for its unique durability and beauty, making it popular for a wide range of architectural and design projects. 

Appearance and characteristics: Merbau wood has a rich, vibrant colour ranging from golden brown to deep reddish-brown. Its colour can vary, but it often has striking black stripes that give it a distinctive appearance. The grain pattern is usually interlocking, giving the timber an aesthetic appeal. Merbau’s sturdy, smooth quality not only gives it aesthetic appeal but also makes it resilient and durable. 

History and background: Used for centuries in its native areas, Merbau is valued for its strength and durability. Traditionally, it was used in a variety of construction projects, including flooring and boat building. Today, Merbau timber is highly sought after worldwide for its superior quality and versatility, reflecting its rich heritage and modern practicality.

Advantages of Merbau Timber

Strong and Durable: Merbau timber is popular for its unmatched strength and durability. Its natural oils and dense structure make it corrosion-resistant, ensuring it matches the demands of indoor and outdoor applications. This strength makes it ideal for high-traffic areas and structures exposed to environmental factors. 

Mold and Rot Resistance: One of the unique characteristics of Merbau is its resistance to mold and rot. The high oil content of the wood acts as an insect repellent and promotes the growth of fungi, which can otherwise compromise the integrity of the wood. This resistance prolongs the life of Merbau products and reduces the need for frequent replacement and maintenance.

Aesthetics and Appearance: The attractive, varied colours and unique grain patterns of Merbau wood make it a versatile choice. Whether for use on outdoor decking, indoor flooring, or fine materials, Merbau adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any project. Its flexibility allows it to blend seamlessly with designs, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space.

Applications of Merbau Timber

Outdoor Decking and Flooring: It serves perfectly for outdoor decking and flooring due to its strength and water-resistant characteristics. It can sustain harsh sunlight, rain, or changes in temperature, making it an ideal choice for exteriors. Similarly, Merbau is preferred for indoor flooring due to its strength and attractive appearance, providing both functionality and style.

Furniture, Cabinetry, and Handrails: Other than decking and flooring, Merbau is often used to build fine furniture, cabinetry, and handrails. Its aesthetic appearance and durability make it perfect for crafting those fine, long-lasting pieces that withstand everyday use while adding a touch of natural elegance to any interior.

Structural Applications: Kwila, or Merbau timber, finds its way into many other structural applications due to the strength and stability of this particular wood. It can be used for beams, posts, and other load-bearing elements in construction projects. This versatility ensures that Merbau can support a wide range of building needs while maintaining its impressive performance characteristics.

Comparing Merbau Timber to Other Timber Options

Merbau vs. Teak: Durability is one of the most frequently cited factors that people consider when comparing various types of wood. Teak is a very popular tree species because it has both an attractive appearance and various other desirable properties such as durability, resistance to decay, the ability to withstand heavy rains (even in wet seasons), and so on. Merbau, on the other hand, does not have this kind of appeal, but it has its own unique set of advantages, which include a higher density level, more distinctive grain patterning, dark reddish-brown coloration, deep pores for increased beauty, and good stability even in the face of moisture changes—one quality that makes merbau superior over other hardwood materials available today. As far as cost is concerned, merbau costs less than teak, which means you do not need to spend much money if your aim is just to make something out of wood without necessarily having any specific style in mind.

Merbau vs. Oak: Another famous hardwood is oak, which is known for its strength and traditional appearance. However, Merbau offers more durability against termites as well as decay compared to oak, making it better suited for outdoor purposes. In addition, Merbau’s colour variations and grain patterns are unique compared to the uniformity of colour associated with oak.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability: It is important to consider the environment when selecting wood. Many suppliers of merbau timber are known to follow a strict code of conduct as far as cutting trees is concerned, and hence it is sourced from sustainably managed forests. Thus, merbau is seen as more durable, yet at the same time, it is sustainable, unlike other types of timber. This characteristic helps those people who wish their projects to be an eco-friendly, judicious choice while using this type of wood.

 

How to Maintain and Care for Merbau Timber Products

Cleaning and Preservation: In order to ensure that the timber is beautiful for a longer period of time, it should always be cleaned regularly. In case dirt and debris are present, use mild detergent with water; do not use strong chemicals since they may destroy the natural oils of this kind of timber. Consequently, by cleaning periodically when used outside, one prevents dirt from accumulating and maintains good condition for such kinds of timber as Merbau.

Treatments and Finishes: Applying appropriate treatments and finishes can enhance the longevity of Merbau timber. Penetrating oils or sealants for hardwoods are suggested when it comes to guarding against both moisture and ultraviolet light rays. They protect the timber’s hue and prevent it from drying out or becoming fragile.

Protection from Weathering and UV Damage: Exterior Merbau timber could be vulnerable to weathering and ultraviolet rays. To prevent this, apply a good-quality wood oil or a finish that resists ultraviolet rays frequently. Furthermore, be sure that there is sufficient air circulation around it, and since external conditions can be very rough, do not expose it for long.

Why Choose Us for Your Merbau Timber Needs?

Expertise and Experience: Our team possesses extensive knowledge of procuring and provisioning top-notch Merbau and Kwila timbers. We are passionate about providing high-quality products and expert advice to ensure your projects exceed expectations. It is our goal to create exceptional products that meet the needs of our clients in terms of quality without compromising on price.

Commitment to Sustainability: Principally, our sourcing and supply chain are handled in a sustainable manner. In addition, by choosing us, you will be helping to preserve natural resources through responsible timber harvesting that protects the environment.

Superior Customer Service: Our commitment is to offer unmatched customer service and fair pricing. We ensure that every aspect of your journey is enjoyable and fulfilling by giving you expert recommendations and making sure that we deliver our high-quality products at the right time.

Merabu timber remains a popular choice among Australians due to its remarkable durability, aesthetic appeal, and versatility. Choosing Merabu for your next project is a wise decision as you invest in a product that combines strength, durability, and natural beauty. For all your timber needs, connect with our team today!

A few of our happy customers