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Kwila- Intsia bijuga
Kwila is a medium to large tree, widespread throughout the South Pacific. It can be found throughout the Solomon
Islands mainly in coastal forests although it is not of major occurrence. Small sawn parcels are available in a full range
of sizes.
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Kwila is a high quality, strong, durable hardwood. It has been a popular timber in Europe for many years
where it finds a specialised use in velodrome / cycling tracks. It has also become popular in Australia and
New Zealand where it is in demand for high quality applications including exterior joinery. It is a good
substitute for teak (Tectona grandis) and is closely related to the well known doussie (Afzelia spp.) of
West Africa.
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The timber is either a yellowish-brown or dark brown in colour, darkening on exposure to light. In exterior
situations it weathers slowly to a silvery-grey colour. Contrary to popular belief, kwila is not very
durable in the ground, as the extractives, which contribute toward its durability, are prone to leaching.
This leaching process leads to the timber 'bleeding' and imparting a dark brown stain which mars the contact
surface. A sealant should be applied to the timber if it is to be in "contact" situations e.g window sills,
when exposed to the weather.
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The timber seasons very well with little degrade. Preliminary airdrying to 25% moisture content is
preferable before kiln drying. Board ends need to be heavily sealed with wax emulsion to avoid end splitting
and surface checking during drying. After seasoning, it is a very stable timber with low hygroscopic
movement.
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Kwila is suitable for superior joinery including staircase materials, handrails, ballustrading and posts. It
produces high quality, hard wearing flooring and is also used for furniture (indoor and outdoor) and decking.
It is a popular timber for boat and shipbuilding.
Other Names:
- Trade Names: merbau (Malaysia)
- Local Name: u'ula
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