Balau timber is a popular Southeast Asian hardwood, especially widely used in Malaysia for outdoor construction and heavy-duty applications.
Balau comes from several species in the Shorea genus (same family as Meranti). It’s known for being very dense, strong, and naturally durable.
- Key Characteristics
• Color: Yellowish-brown to dark reddish-brown
• Density: Very heavy (harder than most local woods)
• Grain: Interlocked, slightly coarse
• Durability: Excellent resistance to weather, termites, and fungi
• Strength: High load-bearing capacity
Balau is widely used for:
• Outdoor decking (very popular in Malaysia)
• Pergolas & fencing
• Bridges & heavy construction
• Marine structures (jetties, docks)
• Truck flooring
Malaysia
