Pacific Kwila (Merbau) Care & Restoration Pacific Kwila timber is very popular in Australia and New Zealand. The harsh coastal environment requires an extremely durable material and Merbau is a natural wood that has been used in those countries for centuries.   Like many hardwoods, Pacific Kwila, when left untreated will turn a silver gray. This is common with any hardwood and is simply the timer's natural process to protect itself and is not detrimental to the strength of the timber.   One of the true benefits of Pacific Kwila is that it can be returned to its original color by sanding or power-washing to remove the top surface gray.

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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.

The benefits of Pacific Kwila furniture include:

• Pacific Kwila is not affected by termites or insects.

• Pacific Kwila does not typically splinter due to its natural grain texture.

• Pacific Kwila doesn't decay if given a minimal amount of air circulation.

• Pacific Kwila does not require regular sealing to protect it.

Pacific Kwila (Merbau) Furniture Restoration Photos (click on any photo for a larger image)
Pacific Kwila table and chairs left in an outdoor environment.	Silvery Gray appearance after not coating/oiling for two years	View after pressure washing the gray surface. Be careful not to use excessive pressure or get too close to the wood and "burn" it.
Let the wood dry thoroughly before using any type of coating.	Oil with Kwila Oil or commercially available exotic timber oil. Cabot Australian Timber Oil in Natural or Mahogany works very well.	Restored/oiled table and chair compared to the gray.