MERANTI
Common Name(s): Balau,
Scientific Name: Shorea spp.
Distribution: Southeast Asia
Janka Hardness: 1,600 lbf (7,120 N)
Color/Appearance: Color can be highly variable depending upon the species: ranging from a pale straw color, to a darker reddish brown.
Grain/Texture: Has a coarse texture with medium to large pores. Grain is sometimes interlocked.
Workability: Typically hard to work, due to its high density. Some species may have a slight blunting effect on tools due to small levels of silica present in the wood. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Sustainability: Balau is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but many species in the Shorea genus are on the IUCN Red List. The majority of Shorea species are listed as being critically endangered due to a population reduction of over 80% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range, and exploitation.
Common Uses: Plywood, veneer, general construction, flooring, as well as a number of other general utility purposes.