FJ Merbau decking expected lifespan?

[Yuki2022]

Hi, 

I just bought some FJ Merbau decking 3 pack from Specrite, I am wondering how long should I expect to get out of this product, I've read somewhere that this type of decking doesn't last as long as the normal merbau. I am tossing up whether I should return it and get treated pine decking instead. The area I am wanting to put this down gets a bit of sun during the day but not afternoon sun.

If this product is suitable what can I do to prelong the life of this product?
Additional I would like to know how long I should wait for putting a new coat on this pre-oiled decking?
https://www.bunnings.com.au/140-x-19mm-2-25m-decking-merbau-specrite-pre-oiled-fj-3-pack_p0064532

I am located in Brisbane.

Many thanks

Chris

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, Chris (@Yuki2022). It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about Merbau decking.

I can't say I've personally heard anything about finger-jointed Merbau decking not lasting as long as solid Merbau decking. Given Pine is a softwood and would have the shortest of all lifespans, I certainly can't see it outliving the FJ Merbau. If you're concerned, I suggest you go with the 140 x 19mm L/M Decking Merbau SpecRite Pre Oiled KD Select instead of the finger-jointed options.

The 140 x 19mm 2.25m Decking Merbau SpecRite Pre Oiled is suitable for your decking needs, and with adequate maintenance, you should expect it to last for a very long time. You'll find the decking comes with a transfer coating of oil and is ready for you to strip the tannins and begin your first oiling. You can either wait seven to ten weeks for natural weathering to take effect, or you can use Cabot's New Timber Prep now and then oil the decking straight away.

Please let me know if you have further questions.

Mitchell

[Yuki2022]

Hi Mitchell,

Thank you for your reply.

Unfortunately my budget can't stretch to getting the select decking merbau as you've suggested otherwise it would have been my second choice after Eko decking.

If you think that FJ merbau is better than pine then I'll go with your expertise.

Thank you!

[Remarka6le]

@MitchellMc is 100% correct, FJ will easily be better vaule and last longer than pine, just remember to maintain it (especially if it's exposed to sun), my dad has a massive Merbau deck that he maintains via pressure wash, deck cleaner then soft wash every 6 months and re-stains / seals every 12 months (usually in winter).