Maximum span for merbau on fence

[dan76n]

Hi all, Im using Merbau 90 x 19 decking as panels between rendered posts (horizontal).
What would be the maximum lenght I could use before I need a support so it doesnt bow???

[mic-d]

G'day Dan, 1200 -1500 would be the maximum I would be willing to go...
Cheers
Michael

[dan76n]

Thanks Micheal, what would be the most inconspicuos material to use to support them?

[vlv8vic]

Might embark on a similar project soon. Brick fence is already there but will build up the pillars and use merbau between, gap is about 2m, i just planned to use a very small dark-coloured piece of steel or something to keep them supported. Youll see it from the back but not from the street.
Scariest park is the render asive never done it, did you do this yourself?

[mic-d]

Thanks Micheal, what would be the most inconspicuos material to use to support them?

A piece of ~40mm screening in the same timber or a piece of gal flatbar.

Cheers
Michael

[dan76n]

I got some one else to render, It cost about $800. We painted it.
here is a picture so far, Im missing one piece on the top of the left side.
I intend to scrub it with nappysan every 2 weeks for about 2 months, then Im going to probably varnish it with cabots exterior marine grade or something similar. I think I will take each piece off to fully seal when I varnish so I dont get Tannin stains for the next 20 years.