Pacific Kwila Decking Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How does Pacific Kwila (Kwila)
compare to standard pressure treated (ACQ) decking?
A. Pacific Kwila is almost double the hardness (1925 vs. 690
on the Janka Scale) of Yellow Pine. Pacific Kwila is naturally
insect/termite resistant, is not prone to splinter and
check(split) as it ages, and is highly resistant to
decay when fully exposed to weather if clear of ground
and has good air circulation.
In other words, Pacific Kwila:
-
Is more than double the hardness of standard pressure
treated pine
-
Is not affected by termites or insects
-
Does not typically splinter due to its natural
grain texture
-
Doesn't decay if given a minimal amount of air
circulation
-
Does not require regular sealing to protect it
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Q. How does the cost compare
to standard ACQ pressure treated pine decking?
A. Typically, Pacific Kwila decking will cost about 200 -
300% more up front (for decking material only –
not the total deck cost) and has an average life of
25 – 50 years. However, this does not take into
consideration the cost for cleaners, sealants and regular
maintenance required for pressure treated products which
have an average life of about 8 -12 years AND the cost
to replace the ACQ deck 1-3 times over the average life
of a Pacific Kwila deck. When looking at the total cost of
ownership, appearance, home value increase and general
enjoyment – Pacific Kwila is a great product and a great
deal!
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Q. Does Pacific Kwila decking
have any special installation requirements?
A. There are 2 key requirements:
- It is very important to provide at least a 3/32
spacing between boards to allow good air circulation.
Since Pacific Kwila is 50% stronger than Oak, standard 16”
OC joist spacing can be used with perpendicular or
diagonal decking layouts. The shrinkage rate is less
than 3% so spacing during installation is critical
to insure typical lifespan of 25 – 50 years.
Pacific Kwila does not shrink!
- Pre-drilling for fasteners is required within 6
- 12 inches of the board’s end to prevent splitting
due to the dense nature of Pacific Kwila.
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Q. I was told Pacific Kwila “bleeds
or weeps” initially. How long does this last?
A. Pacific Kwila contains more oil or tannin in its pores
than most other exotic hardwoods. When first exposed
to moisture this surface oil/tannin will bleed or weep.
The time period for this process to complete varies
with timber, temperature and humidity. Generally, a
good overnight rain will remove most of the oil but
the actual time required varies. The oil/tannin is not
sticky but can stain (looks similar to weak coffee)
so it is important to cover or protect anything that
could be stained below the deck during this initial
period. Once complete, Pacific Kwila will not bleed again.
A short inconvenience for 25-50 years of great service
from your new deck!
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Q. Where does Pacific Kwila grow?
A. It grows primarily in Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua
New Guinea and Northern Australia. Each country has
harvesting guidelines that are in place to prevent over
harvesting and insure continued supply in accordance
to the International Timber Treaty Organization (ITTO)
guidelines.
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Q. Where is Pacific Kwila
typically used?
A. Pacific Kwila decking is very popular in Australia and
New Zealand. The harsh coastal environment requires
an extremely durable material and Pacific Kwila is a natural
wood that has been used for docks and decking for centuries.
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Q. Are there
any special fastener requirements?
A. Pacific Kwila accepts a variety of fasteners: however,
a trim head screw design will offer the best appearance
and place the least stress on the material. Several
fastening systems are also available that do not utilize
any surface fastener exposure. Utilizing the recommended
fasteners will eliminate the need for pre-drilling except
on the ends (see previously mentioned installation requirements).
Dansson recommended fasteners are:
1) GRK trim head screws in Climatek or stainless steel
for standard fasteners. (#8 x 2” for decking)
2) Spot Nails’ Tebo System for a “no exposed
fasteners” look.
Call toll-free 1-877-dansson for additional information.
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Q. What kind
of rail system should I use?
A. There are many different styles available in addition
to a standard railing from glass, stainless steel cables,
coated steel, coated aluminum, etc. Top and bottom rails
are available in Pacific Kwila as well. Many decks will utilize
the uprights placed in the ground and extend them above
the deck to create corner posts and structural support
for the railing system. These are generally stained
to match the deck.
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Q. Does Pacific Kwila
require a sealant be applied to all cut edges like many
other exotic timbers?
A. No, the natural oils in Pacific Kwila protect it from checking/splitting
which makes installation faster and easier.
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Q. I have just finished
installing my new Pacific Kwila deck. What should I do to protect
it?
A. First, let the Pacific Kwila bleed as discussed above.
Then it can be left alone, stained, painted or oiled
to get the appearance desired. If nothing is done, the
decking will turn a silvery gray after several months.
Pacific Kwila accepts stains and paints formulated for exterior
hardwood/exotic wood well. Always test on a small area
first to insure good results. The easiest treatment
to apply is oil which does not require stripping with
reapplications. Simply spray, brush or roll on the oil
when the color starts to fade and the oil brings back
the rich natural color of the Pacific Kwila. Dansson recommends:
Cabot Australian Timber Oil in either Natural or Pacific Kwila
color.
Call toll-free 1-877-dansson for additional information
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Q. I have
not done anything to my deck for several years and it
has turned completely gray Can I return it to its original
color?
A. Yes, Pacific Kwila can be returned to its original color
by sanding or power-washing to remove the top surface
gray Care should be used when power washing to prevent
“burning” the wood by getting too close
or using excessive high pressure. Once the wood has
been cleaned it should be allowed to dry thoroughly.
Then coat with oil or apply desired finish. A second
coating may be required.
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Q. What sizes
are available?
A. Decking is available in ¾” x 3 ½”
in random lengths from 6’ -19’. Railing
pieces are available in 1 ½” x 3 ½
“ x 8’ (bottom rail) and 1” x 5 ½”
x 8’ (top rail). Custom sizes are available by
special order.
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Q. The
decking has a smooth and reeded side. Which should I
use as my top surface?
A. Either side is acceptable and it depends purely
on the appearance desired. The reeded or grooved side
offers a distinct appearance not found on most other
decking materials that many builders and customers prefer.
The grooves are not deep enough to make cleaning difficult
and if exposed to direct sun, the reeded side does not
transfer the heat due like a flat surface. In other
words, it doesn't feel as hot when walking barefooted!
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Q. How
do I clean my Pacific Kwila deck?
A. Simply hosing it off, sweeping with a broom or using
a power blower are the most common and easiest. Power
washing should only be used if restoring a deck.
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Q. Can I
place large flower pots on the deck?
A. Yes, Pacific Kwila is extremely strong and even the largest
pots will not present a problem assuming the general
design of the deck will support the load. Note that
Pacific Kwila does need to get airflow and large pots should
be placed on casters or gliders to allow a slight gap
(3/32” minimum).
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