As a qualified carpenter and someone who has spent decades building timber decks across Perth and regional Western Australia, I have worked with just about every timber species you can imagine. From local hardwoods through to imported varieties, each option has its strengths and drawbacks. But when it comes to a reliable, good-looking, and cost-effective choice for homeowners, merbau decking continues to be the number one favourite across Australia, and for very good reasons.
If you are thinking about adding a deck to your home, it pays to understand why Merbau is so popular in our part of the world, what the pros and cons are, and what kind of care and maintenance it requires. Let me walk you through what makes merbau decking such a solid investment for West Australian homes and what to look out for when choosing a builder.
The Popularity of Merbau Decking in Australia
Merbau decking has been the top-selling decking timber in Australia for years. Imported from Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, it has become the go-to timber for builders, landscapers, and homeowners alike. One of the big reasons for its popularity is cost. Compared to many imported hardwoods and our premium Australian species, Merbau comes in at a much more affordable price point.
This affordability does not mean it compromises on quality. On the contrary, Merbau is considered one of the most durable hardwoods available and is naturally suited to our harsh climate. When you combine strength, beauty, and price, it is easy to see why so many homeowners in WA choose merbau decking when they want to extend their outdoor living space.
The Unique Look of Merbau Timber
The first thing people notice about merbau decking is the colour. Freshly cut, it has a rich reddish-brown tone that deepens over time into a warm, natural shade. This unique colouring makes it stand out from many other hardwoods, which often fade to a paler grey.
For homeowners who want their deck to make a statement, Merbau offers a natural vibrancy that works beautifully against the backdrop of a West Australian garden. It pairs well with native landscaping, modern architecture, and coastal designs.
Whether oiled regularly to retain its deep tones or left to weather naturally, merbau decking always carries a distinctive character.
Why Merbau is Ideal for Harsh West Australian Conditions
Building decks in Western Australia comes with its own set of challenges. We have some of the hottest summers, harsh UV exposure, and long dry periods followed by sudden bursts of heavy rain. Not all timbers can cope with this sort of climate, but Merbau has proven itself time and time again.
Merbau is extremely durable and stable. It does not warp or crack as easily as softer timbers and it holds up well against the expansion and contraction that happens with temperature changes. This makes it particularly well-suited to Perth’s climate, where decks cop a lot of direct sun throughout the year.
Another major advantage is that Merbau is naturally resistant to termites, which are a real issue in many parts of WA. Unlike some timbers that require chemical treatment, Merbau has natural oils and density that deters termite attack. It is also rated for fire resistance, which provides added peace of mind for homeowners in bushfire-prone areas.
The Pros and Cons of Merbau Decking
Every material has strengths and weaknesses, and Merbau is no different.
The big advantages are durability, affordability, natural resistance to pests and fire, and of course its unique colour. It also takes oils and finishes well, meaning you can maintain its rich tones for many years if you keep up with regular care.
The downside is that being an imported timber, there are sometimes concerns about sustainability and sourcing. It is essential to purchase merbau decking from a reputable supplier that adheres to legal and ethical forestry practices. Another minor drawback is that Merbau contains a natural tannin, which can leach out when the timber is first exposed to rain. This can stain surrounding surfaces, such as concrete or pavers, so proper pre-installation washing and sealing are essential.
Overall, the positives far outweigh the negatives, especially when working with a skilled builder who understands how to prepare and install the decking correctly.
Solid Merbau Boards vs Finger-Jointed Merbau
Not all merbau decking boards are the same. When you are shopping around, you may notice that some suppliers offer finger-jointed Merbau boards alongside solid boards.
Finger-jointed boards are made by joining smaller offcuts of timber together to form a longer board. While this can be a cost-effective option, it is not ideal for outdoor decking in harsh climates. The joints are more vulnerable to moisture and movement, which means they may not last as long.
Solid Merbau boards, on the other hand, are cut from a single piece of timber. These boards are stronger, more stable, and much more reliable over the long term. As a carpenter, I always recommend solid Merbau boards for decking because they provide a higher-quality finish and fewer problems down the track.
Maintaining Merbau Decking in Western Australia
Like any natural timber, Merbau requires maintenance to keep it looking its best and performing well. One of the most important things you can do is oil and seal your deck regularly.
In Western Australia’s climate, I recommend sealing your merbau decking every six to twelve months. This helps protect the timber from UV rays, reduces the risk of splitting, and keeps the colour rich and vibrant. The first sealing is particularly important, as it locks in the oils and minimises tannin leaching.
Before sealing, the deck should be cleaned properly with a decking cleaner to remove dirt, oils, and any early signs of weathering. With the right care routine, a Merbau deck can last for decades, making it a very worthwhile investment for homeowners.
Choosing the Right Builder for Your Merbau Decking
One of the most important decisions you will make is not just choosing Merbau as your decking material, but also choosing the right person to build it. A well-built deck is about more than just screwing boards into place. It requires proper preparation, correct installation techniques, and attention to detail that only comes with experience.
In Perth and across WA, look for a qualified carpenter who has specific experience working with merbau decking. They should be able to show you examples of their previous work and explain their process for preparing, installing, and sealing the timber. A good builder will also source the decking boards from a reputable supplier to ensure quality and sustainability.
It is also worth choosing a builder who offers ongoing support and maintenance advice. A professional deck builder knows that their reputation depends on the longevity of their work, and they should be happy to guide you on how to care for your Merbau deck in the years to come.
Merbau Decking in WA
Merbau decking remains the most popular choice in Australia for good reason. It offers the perfect balance of affordability, durability, beauty, and resilience. For West Australian homes, it stands up exceptionally well to our tough climate, provides natural protection against termites and fire, and delivers a unique colour that adds warmth and style to any outdoor space.
By choosing solid Merbau boards over finger-jointed alternatives and keeping up with regular sealing, you can enjoy a deck that not only looks stunning but also lasts for decades. And by working with an experienced and qualified builder, you can be confident that your Merbau deck will become a valuable extension of your home.
If you are planning a new deck in Perth or anywhere across Western Australia, merbau decking is a choice that will reward you with strength, style, and value for many years to come.
