Balau Group
Balau is a very dense tightly grained wood that is heavily laden with rich tropical oils and resins. Balau’s texture is very fine and even. For centuries Balau has been used for shipbuilding, heavy-duty furniture, and heavy construction, coveted for it’s excellent strength and weather resistant qualities. Balau is also a responsibly managed species and although it’s mechanical properties are superior, Balau has not experienced the overpricing that Tectona has.
Native to Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, balau is a dense hardwood used mainly for heavy construction.
The heartwood of balau is yellow to brown, which is distinct from the paler sapwood. Its moderately fine and even texture presents an interlocked grain, which produces a stripe figure on the radial surface. Balau is also susceptible to pinhole borer damage.
In relation to its density, balau is relatively easy to work. It does not contain silica, however resin pockets may be present, meaning resin can build up on cutting equipment. Pre-drilling is advisable when nailing. Balau can be painted, stained and polished but is not suitable for steam bending
Balau is not often seen in Australia. Not to be confused with the more common red and yellow balau timbers, balau (Shorea albida) is used for heavy construction, wharfage, sleepers and shipbuilding.
Moisture content : 8-12%
SIZE IN FEET : 8X4,7X4,6X4,8X3,7X3,6X3
THICKENSS IN MM : 6 MM,9 MM,12 MM,16 MM,19MM
