Kwila (Merbau) botanical name Intsia bijuga, Intsia Palembanica.

The above data shows that Kwila is an ideal timber for use in the manufacture of outdoor furniture and outdoor decking.

Kwila Decking tiles and timber will bleed a red sap (many hardwoods do, including oak) when first exposed to moisture after manufacturing. The sap will stain concrete and flooring materials. This can be reduced by washing the tiles or timber several times with water ideally on a grassed area. After washing, the timber will adopt a deep red colour. An application of sealer will retain the colour. The frequency of application will vary depending upon the exposure to direct sunlight. In the UAE this will be around once or twice a year subject to the location and exposure to sunlight. If left untreated the timber will turn silver, this is the natural process of any hardwood protecting itself and has no detrimental effect on the lasting ability of the product. A timber stain can also be applied for longer-term protection. There are several available from SUNCOAST L.L.C.

For tiles we recommend that they be loose laid in order that they can be lifted for cleaning. The perimeter tiles can be screwed down to a solid substrate to contain the whole area.

Our decking tiles are 30mm thick. Decking timber is 90mm x 19mm in section.

Fixing of Decking (90mmx19mm planks)
Kwila decking can be fixed to a timber sub joist laid at 500mm centers with stainless steel or nickel-plated screws on per junction is sufficient.

Decking Tiles
The Decking Tiles are manufactured from Kwila or Merbau, botanical name Intsia bijuga – Intsia palembanica. Kwila is ideal for outdoor use; it contains natural oils that help protect the timber. Upon exposure to sunlight the timber will turn a deep red in colour, during this process the timber will bleed a red sap, this is like tannin and is water-soluble. This should be taken into account when placing the tiles on certain porous surfaces. Any staining will fade in time or can be removed by washing with a bleach solution.

Tiles should be washed with water several times, as this will hasten this initial weathering process. An application of proprietary sealer sprayed onto the top surface of the tiles will help protect the timber and will ensure that your tiles retain their colour; this is available ex-stock. Should you choose not to treat your tiles then they will turn silver grey in time. This period will vary subject to the amount of exposure to sunlight. This change of colour does not affect the strength or integrity of the tie. It is the timbers natural process of protecting itself, this graying is common amongst all hardwoods.

Please note that the tiles are manufactured from small sections of timber which are glued and screwed together. By utilizing small sections then the likelihood of them twisting and warping is reduced to zero. We tested this product fully for several months in the UAE before launching it into the market.

Each tile is 50cm x 50cm and four tiles make up one square meter. The tiles are 30cm thick, and are available ex-stock.

Protection of Decking
Thermoshield Wood and Deck Coat are locally available treatments ideal fro timbers exposed to UV and inclement weather.