In recent years, merbau has virtually become the byword for decking. But it needs a break, and there’s a multitude of reasons why.
Much of the merbau on the market is not sustainable
Merbau is a slow growing species that takes 75 to 80 years to reach commercial size. Once common in eastern Africa, throughout South East Asia and Oceania, today merbau is only found in significant quantities in Papua (Indonesia) and Papua New Guinea.
Many suppliers of merbau source their timber through unsustainable logging practices in Papua or even completely illegal logging. These unsanctioned supply chains are rapidly leading to the endangerment of the species and destruction of natural habitats.
A Greenpeace report predicts that merbau will be extinct within 35 years or less if action is not taken to stop the destructive logging and trade of the timber species
There are numerous alternatives to merbau
Renewed support for our local hardwoods and the availability of innovative alternative decking products provide endless decking ideas to offer clients.
Why not give these great alternative timbers a try:
- Spotted gum
- Blackbutt
- River reds
- Krikis
While many consumers might believe that merbau is the only available hardwood deck board, providing a great, environmentally friendly solution can be the ticket to setting your business apart.
If you are a deck builder or you offer decking as part of your build, here lies your opportunity to offer some robust alternatives to your clients. So be different and win jobs because you offer choice and have an environmentally friendly, solutions-focused approach.
Dahlsens has widened its range of decking solutions including the species listed above. Most are in stock, and any that aren’t can be ordered with a two day lead time.
Discover non-timber decking materials
HardieDeck
If you are looking for the latest innovation in decking, then look no further. James Hardie’s HardieDeck decking solution is unique and offers a range of benefits including:
- Low maintenance: regular staining is not required
- Moisture resistant
- Bushfire safety approved: Flame Zone (BAL-FZ)
- Resistant to rotting
- Resistant to termites
- Quick installation
- Flexibility to paint in any colour
- 10 Year System Warranty (When installed and maintained correctly and to the extent set out in James Hardie’s published literature current at the time of installation).=
ModWood
If you are looking for a timber lookalike composite decking, then ModWood is one to consider. The product is manufactured and formulated in Australia from recycled plastic, pine dust and a binding agent to suit our harsh conditions.
ModWood’s cutting-edge design is built to last with benefits including:
- Does not warp, crack or splinter under normal conditions
- Requires no sanding, sealing or painting for long term protection
- High degree of UV stability
- Highly resistant to weather, moisture and termites
- Very similar non slip ratings to painted or coated timber decking products.
For more information about decking solutions to match your project needs get in touch with an experienced member of the Dahlsens team today.