31x11 Merbau Solid Screening KD Dressed All Round (DAR)

31x11 Merbau smooth screening refers to timber with a Dressed All Round (DAR) finish, prized for its high durability and rich, reddish-brown colour that adds a premium architectural look to outdoor spaces. 

Key Features

• Finish: The term "smooth" indicates a Dressed All Round (DAR) finish, meaning all four sides are planed smooth and uniform, allowing for clean lines and easy installation.
• Durability: Merbau is an extremely durable, Class 1 hardwood (above ground), naturally resistant to rot, decay, termites, and harsh weather conditions, ensuring a lifespan of 25-30+ years with proper maintenance.
• Aesthetics: It features a rich, deep reddish-brown colour when new or oiled, which can be maintained with regular oiling or left to weather to a silver-grey patina over time.
• Stability: The timber is kiln-dried (KD) to reduce moisture content, enhancing stability and minimising warping or splitting after installation.
• Bushfire Compliance: Approved for use in bushfire-prone areas in Australia, with a BAL 29 rating and meeting Australian Standard AS3959 requirements.
• Workability: Merbau is known for being easy to work with, allowing for clean cutting, drilling, and fastening during building projects. 

Common Applications

• Privacy Screening & Fencing: The standard 31x11mm profile is widely used for constructing modern, durable privacy screens and boundary fences, often with a consistent gap for visual appeal.
• Feature Walls & Cladding: Its rich colour and smooth texture make it a popular choice for decorative external feature walls or cladding for pergolas and alfresco areas.
• Decorative Accents: It can be used for various DIY projects, including creating borders for existing decking or accents on outdoor furniture.
• Pool Areas: Merbau's durability and moisture resistance make it a strong option for screening around pool areas, with batten spacing options available to meet pool compliance regulations. 

Important Considerations

• Tannin Leaching: Merbau is a tannin-rich hardwood and will leach a brown or red stain when first exposed to water. It is important to pre-oil or seal the timber before or after installation to prevent staining on concrete or other surfaces.
• Maintenance: To preserve the deep reddish colour, regular maintenance with a quality timber oil is essential. Without it, the timber will fade to grey.

• Fixings: Stainless steel fasteners (screws or nails) should be used to prevent rust stains on the timber surface.