Balau

Cutting cost $3 per cut. Leaving your cut list at the check out and we will contact you. Or contact us via email or WhatsApp to discuss your needs.

Please contact us for availability of plank sizes. We have several different sizes available (website stock may not be accurate). Better still, come down and have a look at our stock and chat with us for wood advice and application.

Balau is a robust, tropical hardwood native to Southeast Asia, widely recognized for its durability and strength. This hardwood is extensively used in the construction and carpentry industries, owing to its excellent resistance to weather and the elements, making it a preferred choice for outdoor applications.

Also known as Selangan batu (Brunnei); Phchok (Cambodia); Sal (India); Anggelam, Balau, Bangkirai and Dammar laut (Indonesia); Mai chik khok (Laos); Thitya (Myanmar); Gisok, Malayakal and Yakal (Philippines); and Aek, Ak, Balao, Takhian-samphon, Teng and Rang (Thailand).

Appearance: Balau wood presents a heartwood with a color palette that ranges from a medium brown to a deeper reddish-brown, often with purple or yellow hues that enrich its visual appeal. The sapwood, in contrast, is usually paler and clearly distinguishable from the heartwood. Balau features a moderately fine to coarse texture with a grain that can be interlocked or sometimes straight, adding to its aesthetic versatility. The wood darkens to a deep brown on prolonged exposure.

Characteristics & Properties: One of Balau's most notable characteristics is its exceptional durability and resistance to both fungal decay and insect infestation. This resilience is largely due to its dense composition and natural oil content, which also makes it highly resistant to water absorption and rot. Balau is also known for its high strength and hardness, which contribute to its longevity in demanding environments.

Workability: While Balau's density and hardness are assets to its durability, they can also make it challenging to work with. The wood has a tendency to blunt cutting tools, and its interlocked grain can cause difficulties in machining operations. However, with sharp tools and appropriate techniques, it can be successfully cut, shaped, and finished. Pre-drilling is recommended for nailing and screwing. Despite its oil content, Balau glues well and can achieve a smooth finish with the right preparation.

Applications: Balau is predominantly utilized in outdoor applications where its strength and resistance to the elements are paramount. It is an excellent material for decking, outdoor furniture, jetties, and piers due to its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Balau is also favored for heavy construction, including beams, joists, and supports, where its structural integrity is crucial. Additionally, its aesthetic qualities make it suitable for veneer, flooring, and decorative purposes in both residential and commercial settings.

In summary, Balau is a highly durable and versatile hardwood, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of carpentry and construction projects, especially those requiring longevity and resistance to outdoor conditions. Its natural beauty, combined with its robust physical properties, ensures that Balau remains a popular choice for both functional and decorative applications.