Merbau

Merbau is a popular hardwood from South East Asia used in a wide range of applications; from construction to indoor and outdoor furniture. Merbau grows naturally in South East Asia, the Philippines, Solomon Islands, Fiji and Papua New Guinea and is imported to Australia from these countries. Merbau grows in Australia in a specific region by the Johnstone River and in the Daintree area of Far North Queensland. It is the trade name for Intsia bijuga. Also known as Kwila and Ipil. There are also various other names associated with these hardwoods which are listed below.

It has a well defined and pale yellow in colour Sapwood, and the heartwood is yellowish to orange, brown when fresh, weathering to brown or dark red brown. The Grain is interlocked or wavy. Texture is coarse but even. Growth rings are distinct. Vessels are often filled with a yellow or a white deposit, which is conspicuous on surface. The dark brown gummy substance readily leaches out in water.

It is one of the hardest and most durable timber species available. It is so tough and durable that special machinery and a lot of saw blades are needed to harvest, process, and manufacture the timber. It is so tough even termites hate it and want nothing to do with it whatsoever.

The secret to Merbau timbers strength, durability and good looks is the abundance of natural oils within the wood. This natural oil also protects the timber from shrinking, cracking, and splitting. However, the oil contains a water-soluble compound called tannin that “bleeds” and can stain surrounding areas for a period after it is cut. This bleeding will continue for as long as tannin is present in the timber. It is worth being mindful of this when building with Merbau to avoid staining of outdoor surfaces.

Application & Attributes

Merbau takes well to paint, stain, and polish; however, the finish can sometimes be affected by gum bleed-through or oily patches. Its vessels also contain a yellow substance that stains textiles and concrete. It turns well and is relatively easy to work with hand tools, though it can be variable when it comes to machining. It will generally cut cleanly but there may be some blunting or gumming effect on cutting edges. Merbau tends to split unless pre-bored but holds fastenings well.

Price guide: $$

Sample Handles in Merbau

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