Why Nyatoh & Merbau?


Image credit: Eric Meier, The Wood Database.
Available at: [The Wood Database - Nyatoh]

Nyatoh

Origin​​

Southeast Asia
(primarily Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)

Colour

Reddish-brown, darkens with age

Grain​

Straight to  interlocked

Texture​

Medium to coarse

Density​

Medium (640-800 kg/m³)

Hardness

Moderately hard (1,225 lbf)

Durability​​

Moderately durable, prone to insect attack if untreated

Stability

Moderate, can warp or shrink if not properly dried

Flexibility

Moderately flexible; suitable for curved designs but may splinter

Moisture Movement

Moderate; requires sealing for outdoor use

Uses

Indoor furniture, interior joinery, cabinetry, veneer

Lifespan (Indoor)

Several decades with proper care

Lifespan (Outdoor)

5-15 years, depending on maintenance and environmental conditions

Maintenance

  • Indoor: Regular dusting, mild wood cleaner, occasional polishing

  • Outdoor: Apply wood preservative or sealant annually, protect from moisture and insects

  • Protection: Avoid direct sunlight and high humidity; check for insect damage


Image credit: Eric Meier, The Wood Database.
Available at: [The Wood Database - Merbau]

Merbau

Origin​​

Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia) 
and the South Pacific (Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands)

Colour

Deep reddish-brown, that darkens with age

Grain

Straight to interlocked, wavy

Texture​

Medium to coarse, often oily to the touch

Density​

High (800-900 kg/m³)

Hardness

Very hard (1,925 lbf)

Durability

Highly durable, resistant to termites and decay

Stability

Minimal shrinkage and warping

Flexibility

Low flexibility; best suited for straight or mildly curved designs

Moisture Movement

Low; naturally stable

Uses

Indoor/Outdoor furniture, sturdy joinery, flooring, decking, heavy construction

Lifespan (Indoor)

Over 50 years with proper care

Lifespan (Outdoor)

25-40 years with appropriate treatment and maintenance

Maintenance

  • Indoor: Regular dusting, cleaning with gentle wood cleaner, occasionally polishing

  • Outdoor: Apply oil-based or UV-resistant finish every 1-2 years

  • Protection: Keep sealed; avoid prolonged extreme weather exposure