Kwila Decking
Kwila Decking is a popular choice in New Zealand for those seeking durable and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces. Known for its rich, reddish-brown hue and exceptional resistance to the elements, Kwila is perfectly suited for New Zealand's varying climate, making it a reliable option for both residential and commercial decking projects.
What is Kwila Decking?
- Description: Kwila, also known as Merbau, is a South East Asian tropical hardwood prized for its unique aesthetic and durability. The heartwood of Kwila ranges from yellow-brown to dark red-brown, with a slightly interlocked grain and moderately coarse texture. Its lustrous appearance and the distinctive yellow deposits in its vessels make it stand out in any application.
- Origin: Kwila originates from the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Pacific, particularly from countries like Papua New Guinea and Indonesia
- Botanical Information: Kwila's botanical name is Intsia spp., and it includes species like Intsia Bijuga and Intsia Palembanica.
Kwila Decking
Benefits of Kwila Decking
Durability:
Kwila is classified as a Class 2 durable hardwood, known for its resistance to decay and wear. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor applications, particularly in environments that experience heavy foot traffic and exposure to the elements.
Aesthetic Appeal:
With its rich, reddish-brown color that matures into an elegant driftwood grey over time, Kwila adds a sophisticated and timeless look to any deck. The grain pattern, often accompanied by golden flecks, enhances its visual appeal.
Stability:
Kwila is naturally stable, with low shrinkage properties that ensure it maintains its form over time, even in challenging conditions.
Eco-Friendliness:
JSC Kwila is sustainably sourced and FSC® certified (FSC Licence Code - C003608), ensuring that your decking project is environmentally responsible.
Kwila Decking
Technical Specifications
Sizes and Profiles:
Kwila decking is available in various profiles, including 90x19mm and 140x19mm. These profiles cater to different design preferences and structural requirements.
Density and Strength:
Kwila is a dense hardwood with an air-dry density of approximately 870 kg/m³. It has a Modulus of Rupture of 115 MPa and a Janka hardness rating of 8.8 kN, making it a strong and resilient choice for decking.
Maintenance Requirements:
Kwila decking requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance and prevent tannin bleeding. It is recommended to apply a protective coating on all sides of the boards to reduce maintenance needs and extend the life of the decking. See decking guide for full maintenance information.
Kwila Decking
Installation Guidelines
Preparation:
Ensure that the site is properly prepared before installation, with adequate clearance and ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Store the decking boards in a dry, covered area until ready for installation.
Fixings:
For optimal results, use stainless steel screws and ensure proper spacing to prevent splitting. Pre-drill all fixing holes to reduce the risk of cracks. Fixing placement should be 20mm from the edges of the boards.
Ventilation:
Proper ventilation under the decking is crucial to prevent cupping and warping. Ensure that there is at least 450mm of clearance from the ground and that the deck perimeter is open to airflow.
Our sales and technical team are happy to provide further guidance to ensure accurate and proper installation of this product. Flick us an email or give us a call.
Maintenance Tips
- Cleaning: Clean your Kwila deck annually with a soft brush and mild detergent. Avoid using high-pressure water, as it may damage the wood. Regular cleaning helps maintain the deck's appearance and prevents staining from tannin bleed.
- Re-coating: To preserve the deck's look and longevity, re-coat it periodically with a high-quality penetrating oil. Ensure that the deck is clean and free of stains before applying the oil.
Cost Considerations
Kwila decking represents an excellent investment due to its durability and low maintenance needs. While the initial cost may be higher compared to other materials, its long-term savings and the added value it brings to your property make it a cost-effective choice.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Kwila is well-suited to New Zealand's climate, offering excellent resistance to decay and weathering, making it a popular choice for outdoor decking.
Yes, JSC's Kwila has been a subject of environmental concern due to illegal logging practices in some regions, leading to deforestation and negative impacts on local ecosystems. However, at JSC, we ensure that our Kwila is responsibly sourced and FSC® certified (FSC Licence Code - C003608), meaning it comes from well-managed forests that adhere to strict environmental and social standards. By choosing FSC® certified Kwila, you can enjoy the benefits of this durable hardwood while supporting sustainable forestry practices.
Regular cleaning and periodic re-coating with a penetrating oil are recommended to maintain the deck's appearance and longevity.
Hardwood decking should be cleaned annually. Use a soft brush with water and mild detergent. Do not direct high pressure water on any part of the hardwood timber. Where a coating is applied, periodic recoating is required to ensure its integrity is sustained. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding hardwood chemical runoff. The amount and characteristics of the runoff will depend on the species, dryness of the boards when installed and how exposed the deck is to the weather.
Yes, Kwila is known to bleed tannins, especially when it's newly installed or gets wet. This can cause staining on nearby surfaces like concrete or tiles. To manage this, it’s recommended to allow the wood to weather before installation or to use a sealant to reduce tannin bleeding. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help minimise the impact.