Wood lexicon Wood species

Red Balau

[Red Ba-lau] [Shorea spp., Rubroshorea section] [Trade names: Red Balau (GB, US), Balau Merah (ID), Balangeran (ID), Selangan Batu Merah (MY), Seri (MY), Guijo / Guiso (PH), Chan Khah / Teng Tani (TH), Chai (VN), Chor Chong (KH), Balau Rouge (FR)]
Red Balau Oberflächenstruktur

Origin

Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Indochina)

Raw density

0.78-0.91 g/cm³ (air-dry)

Durability class

Class 3 (partly 4)

Radial shrinkage

0,21-0,24 %

Tangential shrinkage

0,45-0,60 %

Wood color

Heartwood medium to dark red-brown, sapwood light pink-brown

Wood structure

Scattered pores, large pores, resin channels, interlocking growth

Use

Terraces, bridges, exterior construction, heavy carpentry

Origin & character of the wood

Red Balau originates from the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, especially from IndonesiaMalaysia and parts of Indochina. The associated Shorea species of the Rubroshorea section form large, economically important tropical trees. Due to the large number of species, only Shorea spp. is usually mentioned in the trade, without more precise species classification.

Color play and structure of the wood

The heartwood shows warm red-brown tones, the sapwood is light and clearly defined. The medium-sized pores, resin-bearing channels and the interlocked growth provide characteristic shiny streaks. These features make Red Balau a visually striking and decorative wood.

Stability and possible applications

With its high density, Red Balau is a heavy tropical wood. It is resilient, but challenging to work with. Its natural durability allows it to be used outdoor use – especially where constructive wood protection is guaranteed. Metal contact should be avoided due to possible discoloration.

Sources: Holz vom Fach, Tropix

Garapa-Terrassendielen keilgezinkt FSC III

Garapa decking boards finger-jointed 145mm

ab 9,80 €

Garapa decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 65 per m2, resistance class: 1-2

Advantages: ✓ smooth surface ✓ homogeneous, light color

Disadvantages: ✗ Ferrous materials lead to discoloration ✗ Tendency to warp if not screwed down

Tip: patio cleaning removes discoloration and
professional interim storage prevents warping.

Teak-Terrassendielen 125mm

Teak decking boards 125mm

ab 6,90 €

Teak decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 130 per m2, resistance class: 1

Advantages: ✓ Best durability and dimensional stability ✓ Lowest risk of cracking and splintering

Disadvantages: ✗ Relatively expensive ✗ Not very long planks

Tip: Lay decking boards together.

Cumaru-Terrassendielen glatt 145mm Breite

Cumaru decking boards 145mm

ab 11,85 €

Cumaru decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 70 per m2, resistance class: 1

Advantages: ✓ best durability ✓ particularly robust and scratch-resistant

Disadvantages: ✗ Partly rough surface ✗ High force development

Tip: Sand the boards after the first weathering.