Timber Decking - Jarrah or Merbau??

Hi, we're in Newport VIC 3015.

We're in the process of installing landings & decking. Areas are a covered Front Entry at 2.7x1.7 with a step(s), exposed Side Entry at 1.34x1.15 with step(s) and an exposed Backyard Entry decking at 2x3 with step(s) on two sides with built in 'L' shape seating/bench(s) on the front end. Initially we had all intentions of putting in Merbau (140x19mm) to match our internal Timber Flooring, which is WA Karri (180mm). FYI: with the decking/steps we're after that 'boxed' look finish.

Our Chippy has just thrown in a wobbly; by not only recommending Jarrah but he suggests that tongue & groove decking is the way to go.

Does anyone have any recommendations/experiences with regard to merbau/jarrah &/or tongue&groove/pencil rounded (reeded) decking???

Advice would be much appreciated...


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