Jarrah vs Merbau Decking: Which Is Best for WA?

The short version

Both Jarrah and Merbau make excellent, durable decks well suited to WA. Jarrah is the local hardwood with a rich red character; Merbau is a hard-wearing, good-value import with a warm brown tone. The 'best' one depends on the look you're after and your budget.

Jarrah

Jarrah is Western Australia's own hardwood — a dense, highly durable timber with a deep red-to-brown colour that weathers to silver-grey if left unoiled. It's a classic, genuinely local choice with real character and it's very hard-wearing. It typically sits at the higher end on price and availability.

Merbau

Merbau (also called kwila) is a hard, durable hardwood imported from South-East Asia, widely used for decking across Australia. It's a warm brown, takes oil well, and offers strong value for money. One thing to know: Merbau can bleed tannins when new, so it pays to let it weather or seal it early. If you choose Merbau, look for responsibly-sourced stock.

Which should you pick?

If you want a local, characterful timber and don't mind paying for it, Jarrah is hard to beat. If you want proven durability at a sharper price, Merbau is a great all-rounder. Either way, build quality and finishing matter as much as the species — which is where we come in.

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