Does Merbau stain concrete?

Yes, Merbau has high tannin content that bleeds reddish-brown stains onto concrete, pavers, and light-colored surfaces below the deck, especially in rain. This can be mitigated with proper sealing.

Is Spotted Gum termite resistant?

Yes, Spotted Gum has excellent natural termite resistance and is rated as a Class 1 durable timber, making it one of the most termite-resistant decking options available.

Which is better for bushfire zones?

Spotted Gum has a superior BAL-29 fire rating compared to Merbau's BAL-19, making it the better choice for homes in bushfire-prone areas.

Merbau vs Spotted Gum wood grain comparison

decking

Merbau vs Spotted Gum Decking: Australian Hardwood Guide (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated June 1, 2026|Sources & methodology

Merbau and Spotted Gum are two of the most popular hardwood decking choices, particularly in Australia and increasingly in North American markets. Merbau offers rich color and proven durability, while Spotted Gum brings unique grain patterns and impressive hardness. Both are excellent premium decking options.

Merbau

Spotted Gum

Key Takeaways

Merbau and Spotted Gum are two of the most popular hardwood decking choices, particularly in Australia and increasingly in North American markets.
Merbau offers rich color and proven durability, while Spotted Gum brings unique grain patterns and impressive hardness.
Both are excellent premium decking options.
Both are Class 1 durable hardwoods with similar lifespans.
Spotted Gum edges ahead on hardness and fire rating.

Property	Merbau	Spotted Gum
Price/Linear Ft	$3-$6	$4-$7
Janka Hardness	1,925 lbf	2,473 lbf
Color	Rich reddish-brown	Pale brown to chocolate
Durability Class	Class 1	Class 1
Tannin Bleed	High - stains concrete	Low
Fire Rating	BAL-19	BAL-29
Lifespan	25-40 years	25-40 years

Merbau

Pros

Rich warm color, Proven decades of outdoor use, Good availability, Naturally oily surface

Cons

Heavy tannin bleeding stains surroundings, Can be inconsistent quality, Sustainability concerns, Color darkens significantly

Spotted Gum

Pros

Unique wavy grain pattern, Harder than Merbau, Better fire rating, Minimal tannin bleed

Cons

More expensive, Harder to source outside Australia, Can be gummy to work, More color variation between boards

Best Use Cases

Choose Merbau for a proven rich-colored deck when tannin bleed is manageable. Choose Spotted Gum for superior hardness, unique grain patterns, and better fire rating.

Verdict

Both are Class 1 durable hardwoods with similar lifespans. Spotted Gum edges ahead on hardness and fire rating. Merbau wins on price and availability. Choose based on aesthetics and your local climate concerns.