Grows In: Indo Malyasia, Indonesia, Philippines
Hardness: 1712

WOODWORKING QUALITIES
Carbide cutting tools are highly recommended because of Merbau’s tendency to dull cutting-edge tools. Both species of Merbau sand and finish exceptionally. It must be noted that contact with iron or other ferrous metals can affect the coloration of Merbau, turning it black.

SPECIES CHARACTERISTICS
Merbau is very resistant to termites, and compares with Hickory for durability, but is less dense. Structurally, Merbau is very stable.

APPEARANCE
After being cut, Merbau’s heartwood is a yellow-brown to orange-brown color, and darkens to more brown and reddish with time. The graining of this wood can be interlocked, wavy, or straight. Something particular about Merbau is the sometimes apparent yellow or gold. goldish flecks that can make the appearance seemed speckled with gold.

COLOUR CHANGE
Merbau’s coloring undergoes a darkening to a richer orangey brown color after installation, with a general muting of the variation of colors present when freshly milled.

IDEAL USE
Primary uses for Merbau are cabinetry, furniture, decorative woodwork, and musical instruments, in addition to flooring.