Hardwood - Red Balau
HK$195.00
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.
Rot Resistance
Highly variable among species; should be considered as non-durable in regard to decay resistance, and is also susceptible to insect attack.
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.
Odor
No characteristic odor.
Allergies/Toxicity
Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, Balau in the Shorea genus has been reported to cause eye, throat, and skin irritation. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.
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.
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.
Rot Resistance
Highly variable among species; should be considered as non-durable in regard to decay resistance, and is also susceptible to insect attack.
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.
Odor
No characteristic odor.
Allergies/Toxicity
Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, Balau in the Shorea genus has been reported to cause eye, throat, and skin irritation. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.
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.