Merbau is one of the rare wooden flooring options when compared to the other types of options like maple and oak. Generally, Merbau wooden floors are used and preferred by those who want their homes to stand out from the rest. It is considered to be an exotic wood and can be a great addition to any room and space. The best thing about Merbau wood floors is that they are durable, beautiful as well as affordable and they add character to any room as soon as they are fitted in the room. The wood has a very rich and dark honey color which makes it a very popular choice for homeowners.
As soon as it has been installed, the Merbau wood warms up the space and the room. Some of the manufacturers also offer plenty of other shades which range from light to dark.
Appearance and Properties of Merbau Wood
The Merbau wood grows in the Indo-Malayan region and in Australia, Indonesia, Philippines as well as quite a lot of Pacific Islands. When the wood is cut fresh, the heart of the wood is orange brown to yellowish color. However, when the wood darkens it turns to a red brown or brown color. The grain of the wood varies from wavy or interlocked to straight. The unique feature of Merbau wood is that the surface of the wood has a yellow flecking and when it is finished it appears as if it is flecked with gold. Merbau is sturdy and as hard as teak. It has a lower density then hickory and has great stability. Another benefit of Merbau is that it is resistant to termites.
Durability and Hardness
Merbau is known to be one of the most durable and hard woods when it comes to flooring. It stands on the Janka scale and is 5% harder than wenge wood, 18% than hard maple and therefore it is considered to be one of the most long lasting woods. Merbau also has a good ability for holding and even if it develops scratches or any type of damages with use over the time, it can be easily refinished with sanding. However, good care must be taken of the Merbau wood flooring since it can get stained when it comes it contact with ferrous metals, iron or moisture.
Merbau is used not just in wooden flooring but can also be seen used in musical instruments, cabinets, decorative wooden items, paneling, joinery and all types of furniture. If you do have any furniture made from Merbau in your home then Merbau wooden floors would go quite well with it. Merbau is suitable for homes with high traffic and kids. Even if you have pets and kids in your family, with just a little care and maintenance it is possible to ensure that your Merbau wooden floors remain as good as new for years. With years the floors gain their own character and continue to evolve over the time, looking more beautiful than ever.
Indonesia Outdoor Furniture by Liamk Gardner