Red Balau Wood Guide 2026
Shorea spp.
Typically described as durable Southeast Asian decking wood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 48 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Malaysia;Indonesia
- Common uses include Decking, Heavy exterior construction, Marine
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Coarse and uniform texture with medium luster.
Workability: Difficult to machine due to high density and silica content.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Takes finishes well though high oil content can retard drying.
Color change: Darkens to a deep reddish brown upon exposure to sunlight.
Insect resistance: Highly resistant to termites and decay.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Red Balau. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Available in fixed deck board widths from 4 to 6 inches. | Typically sold in random lengths from 8 to 20 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Available in fixed deck board widths from 4 to 6 inches. | Typically sold in random lengths from 8 to 20 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Available in fixed deck board widths from 4 to 6 inches. | Typically sold in random lengths from 8 to 20 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Available in fixed deck board widths from 4 to 6 inches.
- Lengths
- Typically sold in random lengths from 8 to 20 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Available in fixed deck board widths from 4 to 6 inches.
- Lengths
- Typically sold in random lengths from 8 to 20 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Available in fixed deck board widths from 4 to 6 inches.
- Lengths
- Typically sold in random lengths from 8 to 20 feet.
Decking & exterior profiles
Standard eased edge and tongue-and-groove profiles are common.
Availability notes: Widely available through specialty importers and decking suppliers.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Reddish brown
Grain: Straight to interlocked
Common Uses
- Decking
- Heavy exterior construction
- Marine
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Selangan Batu;Red Meranti
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,630 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Very Durable
- Sourced from Malaysia;Indonesia
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
- Availability may vary
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Red Balau is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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