Overview
Red Balau is a tropical hardwood species that is native to Southeast Asia. It’s known of its stunning reddish-brown color, straight and tight grain pattern, wide availability and affordability. It’s also known for its durability and resistance to decay, along with its natural resistance to termites, with a lifespan of over 20+ years if cared for properly.
Family
Shorea spp.
Origin
Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines)
Grade
Grade A & B, Clear
Drying
All products are kiln dried and pre-stabilized
Janka Hardness
1800 lb.
Color when fresh is light orange to reddish brown and is conspicuously marked with vertical blackish bands of variable spacing. There is often a variegated grain appearance, which produces a very striking and beautiful mottled figure. Continuous unprotected exposure to sunlight turns deepens it’sreddish color tones and accentuates the black striping but if left raw it will eventually turn to a uniform silver-grey.
Extremely resistant to attack by decay, insects and fungi. Also listed as fire resistant per the WUI with a Class B rating.
Regular cleaning, brightening and refinishing with exotic hardwood oil to maintain or restore it’s natural color. Wood left untreated will natural oxidize and go grey, also known as “weathering out”.
Uses
Exterior Architectural Millwork, decking, cladding, rails, posts, timbers, trim, pergolas, furniture, ect.