Merbau
Intsia bijuga • Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands
Exotic Hardwood
$$
Merbau is a popular exotic hardwood known for its rich brown color with golden to orange tones. Highly durable and dimensionally stable, it's widely used for decking, flooring, and outdoor construction in tropical climates.
Janka Hardness
1925
Density
52 lbs/ft³
Moisture
10-12%
Fire Rating
Class A
Durability
Class A - 25+ years
Price Range
$$
Appearance
Dark reddish-brown to orange-brown with golden streaks
Key Characteristics
- •Rich reddish-brown color
- •Excellent durability
- •Good dimensional stability
- •Interlocking grain
- •Coarse texture
- •Natural oils present
Common Applications
- •Decking
- •Flooring
- •Marine construction
- •Heavy construction
- •Furniture
- •Exterior joinery
Maintenance Requirements
Low maintenance. Excellent natural durability. May leach tannins initially. Regular cleaning recommended.
Advantages
- Excellent outdoor durability
- Good value
- Beautiful color
- Dimensionally stable
- Natural pest resistance
- Wide availability
Considerations
- Can leach tannins
- May stain concrete
- Interlocking grain challenges
- Color darkens with age
- Can be difficult to work
- Sustainability concerns