Cumaru deck tile 500 x 500 x 30mm
Product Code: D-000135
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– Cumaru deck tile size: 500mm x 500mm x 30mm
– Each tile consists of 7 boards measuring 65mm x 15mm x 500mm
– Includes 4 pre-drilled corners for easy installation with connectors (connectors sold separately)
– Constructed with stainless steel screws for durability
– Ideal for renovating concrete decks, patios, or balconies
Easy to install deck tiles, produced out of Cumaru hardwood boards.
One of our greatest strengths is our well-organized delivery system. Whether we use external couriers or our own fleet of vehicles, we ensure your decking arrives promptly and in excellent condition. Delivery charges are calculated based on your postcode, the distance to your location, and the length and weight of the materials. For more details, please see our Delivery Terms & Conditions.
Hardwood Decking Tile Installation Guide
Overview: Quick Installation for Renovations and Overlays
Hardwood decking tiles provide a fast, efficient solution for renovating existing concrete decks, patios, and balconies. Pre-assembled with integrated stainless steel screws, these tiles offer the durability and natural beauty of premium hardwood with simplified installation. The modular system requires minimal tools and can transform outdoor spaces in a fraction of the time needed for traditional decking.
Product Specifications
Each tile measures 500mm x 500mm x 30mm and contains 7 hardwood boards (65mm x 15mm x 500mm) pre-assembled onto a frame. Built with stainless steel screws, the tiles weigh approximately 5kg each and feature four pre-drilled corners designed to accept connector clips for secure, quick installation.
Preparation and Acclimatisation
Before installation, allow tiles to acclimatise on-site for at least 48 hours. Store them flat, off the ground, and protected from direct sunlight and moisture. Ensure your base surface is level, clean, and structurally sound. Remove any debris, standing water, or loose material that could compromise stability.
Suitable Base Surfaces
Decking tiles can be installed on:
- Existing concrete patios or balconies
- Established wooden decks requiring renovation
- Flat rooftop terraces with proper drainage
- Compacted gravel or paving slab bases
The base surface must be level, stable, and provide adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation beneath the tiles.
Installation Using Connector Clips
The recommended installation method uses proprietary connector clips (sold separately) that slot into the four pre-drilled corners of each tile:
Position your first tile in a corner of the installation area. Insert connector clips into the corner holes, ensuring clips are properly seated. Place the adjacent tile so its pre-drilled corners align with the free sides of the installed connectors. Press firmly to secure the connection. Continue this pattern across your deck area, working row by row. The connector system automatically maintains consistent spacing between tiles for drainage and expansion.
Direct Fixing Method
For permanent installations or where additional security is required, tiles can be fixed directly to the base surface. Use corrosion-resistant stainless steel screws or masonry fixings appropriate to your base material. Fix through the pre-drilled corner holes into the substrate below. This method is particularly suitable for high-traffic areas or locations exposed to strong winds.
Spacing and Drainage
The connector clip system maintains optimal tile spacing automatically. Proper gaps between tiles allow:
- Water drainage to prevent pooling
- Air circulation beneath the deck surface
- Natural expansion and contraction of the hardwood
- Easy removal of individual tiles for maintenance or access to services beneath
Cutting and Trimming
Where edge tiles require cutting to fit your space:
Use a circular saw with a fine-toothed blade suitable for hardwood. Always wear appropriate safety equipment when cutting. Measure carefully and cut from the underside to minimise visible cut edges. Seal all cut ends with an end grain sealer—beeswax works beautifully and provides excellent protection. Consider edge tiles carefully to maintain the aesthetic finish of your deck.
Pattern Options
Tiles can be installed in various patterns:
- Straight alignment for a uniform, traditional deck appearance
- Staggered pattern for a brick-like effect with enhanced visual interest
- Mixed orientation for decorative borders or feature areas
Plan your pattern before installation to ensure adequate tiles and to minimize cutting.
Maintenance Considerations
Individual tiles can be lifted for access to services or drainage channels beneath. The modular nature of tile installation makes repairs and replacements straightforward—simply disconnect the affected tile and replace it. Regular cleaning with a soft brush and mild detergent will maintain appearance. Apply a suitable hardwood decking oil periodically to preserve colour and provide additional weather protection.
Need Help?
Installation of decking tiles is well-suited to DIY projects, offering professional results with minimal experience. We’re here to support you with installation advice, connector clips, oils, and technical guidance. Contact us for tailored support to suit your project.
Overview: Tropical Hardwood Care and Maintenance
Tropical hardwoods including Balau, Yellow Balau, Ipe, Cumaru, and Angelim Pedra are renowned for extreme density and natural resistance to rot and insects. With proper care, these premium timbers can last 25 to 75+ years. This guide provides essential maintenance practices to preserve the beauty and performance of your installation.
Your Timber Species
- Ipe (Brazilian Walnut): Olive-brown to dark-brown | 40-75+ years
- Cumaru (Brazilian Teak): Reddish-brown to cherry red | 30-50+ years
- Balau (Red/Brown Balau): Consistent brown tones | 20-30+ years
- Yellow Balau (Bangkirai): Golden-yellow to light brown | 25-40+ years
- Angelim Pedra (Brazilian Ironwood): Beige-brown with red undertones | 25+ years
Key differences for Yellow Balau: This Southeast Asian hardwood is slightly less dense than Red Balau but offers excellent durability and stability. It’s particularly valued for its attractive light colouring when fresh, though like all tropical hardwoods it will weather to silver-grey without oil treatment. Yellow Balau has natural silica content which can accelerate tool wear during installation.
Natural Weathering
- Without treatment, all species weather from rich brown to silvery-grey over 6-18 months
- UV rays and moisture cause superficial colour change only
- Weathering doesn’t affect durability or structural integrity
- Original colour can be restored with cleaning, sanding, and oiling
Colour Preservation Options
Choose your maintenance approach early:
Option 1: Natural Silver-Grey (Low Maintenance)
- Apply initial UV-protective oil after installation
- Allow natural weathering to silver-grey
- Simply keep clean with regular sweeping
- Minimal ongoing effort required
Option 2: Maintain Brown Colour (Higher Maintenance)
- Apply UV-resistant oil annually (spring/autumn optimal)
- High-sun areas may need reapplication every 6-9 months
- Products: Penofin Hardwood Formula or Messmer’s UV Plus
- Maintains vibrant colour and grain patterns
Initial Treatment After Installation
End Grain Sealing
- Seal any cut ends immediately to prevent splitting
UV Protection
- Apply UV-protective penetrating oil within first few weeks
- Use products designed for tropical hardwoods (Penofin, Messmer’s, Ipe Oil)
- Skip only if choosing natural silvering option
Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule
Weekly Tasks
- Sweep with soft brush to remove debris
- Remove leaves, twigs, and organic matter promptly
- Clean between boards to prevent moisture buildup
- Spot clean spills immediately with mild soap and water
Seasonal Deep Cleaning (Spring and Autumn)
- Remove all debris thoroughly
- Use commercial hardwood cleaners (Woodrich EFC-38 or Messmer’s)
- Two-part cleaner/brightener systems restore grey wood to near-original colour
- Allow 1-2 days drying before applying treatments
- Apply UV-protective oil if maintaining brown colour
- Inspect and tighten fasteners
- Check for damaged boards
- Verify proper drainage and ventilation
Additional Summer Tasks
- Monitor for excessive drying
- Maintain regular sweeping routine
Additional Winter Tasks
- Remove snow/ice promptly (avoid metal shovels)
- Monitor for standing water or ice buildup
Annual Inspection
- Check all fasteners and tighten as needed
- Inspect for loose, warped, or damaged boards
- Ensure water drains away properly
- Verify ventilation pathways remain clear
- Trim back vegetation for clearance and airflow
- Address any issues immediately
Common Problems and Solutions
- Surface Greying: Clean, lightly sand, apply UV-protective oil
- Mould/Mildew: Clean with hardwood cleaner, improve ventilation and drainage
- Cupping/Movement: Ensure proper ventilation beneath structure, keep debris clear
- Persistent Staining: Use specialized hardwood stain removers, light sanding if needed
Cleaning Methods
Basic Cleaning
- Use mild soap and water with soft brush
- Stiff brush for stubborn dirt
- Rinse thoroughly with garden hose
- Clean spills promptly to prevent staining
Pressure Washing (Use with Caution)
- Only when necessary for deep cleaning
- Start at 3.5 MPa, maximum 8.3 MPa for Ipe (less for Balau)
- Fan spray tip with 40-60 degree spread
- Work with grain about 30cm from surface
- Test inconspicuous area first
- Improper technique permanently damages wood
Stain Removal
- Most household stains fade naturally over time
- Use specialized hardwood cleaners for stubborn stains
- Light sanding may be needed for deep stains
- Reapply protective oil after treatment
Oil Application Process
Follow these steps for best results:
- Clean surface thoroughly with wood cleaner/brightener
- Allow to dry completely (1-2 days)
- Lightly sand with 80-grit sandpaper if needed
- Remove all dust and debris
- Apply oil according to manufacturer’s instructions
- Work in manageable sections to avoid lap marks
- Reapply when water no longer beads on surface
Ventilation and Drainage
Essential for preventing moisture damage:
- Keep vegetation trimmed back from all surfaces
- Ensure water drains away from structure
- Never allow standing water on deck
- Maintain clear ventilation pathways beneath structure
- Remove any obstructions under deck
- Good airflow prevents cupping and movement
Restoration and Refinishing
When to Refinish
- Wood looks dry or faded
- Water no longer beads on oiled surfaces
- After several years if colour restoration desired
Restoration Process
- Strip old finishes if necessary (use wood stripper)
- Clean with wood brightener
- Light sand with 80-grit sandpaper to remove silvered surface
- Remove all dust thoroughly
- Apply fresh oil finish
- Restored areas will weather to match surroundings
Product Recommendations
Cleaners
- Speak with our team about the Treatex products best suited for your selected tropical hardwood species
UV-Protective Oils
- Speak with our team about the Treatex products best suited for your selected tropical hardwood species
Tools
- Soft-bristled brush/broom
- Stiff scrubbing brush
- 80-grit sandpaper
- Garden hose with spray nozzle
Best Practices for Long-Term Care
- Establish regular maintenance routine from the start
- Keep detailed records of treatments and dates
- Use only products specifically designed for tropical hardwoods
- Choose maintenance approach early (natural grey vs. maintained colour)
- Apply treatments in dry, temperate conditions
- Never allow standing water to persist
- Address small issues immediately before they escalate
- Sand lightly when restoration needed
- Reapply oil when water stops beading
- Consider professional cleaning every 3-5 years for large installations
- Consistent care dramatically extends lifespan to maximum potential
Need Help?
Your tropical hardwood is a premium investment designed to last decades. With proper care, Balau, Ipe, Cumaru, and Angelim Pedra installations remain beautiful and functional for 25-75+ years. For product recommendations, maintenance advice, or specific care questions, our experienced team is always on hand to assist. Contact us for tailored guidance to suit your project.
