There is one straightforward reason why people adore Red Balau wood. It has the appearance of rich, strong wood, but it is not as expensive as premium woods Ipe or Teak. The most apparent feature of a red balau deck or outdoor floor is the rich reddish-brown color.
It feels solid under your feet and looks expensive without being flashy.
This wood is taken from tall tropical trees in Southeast Asia and has been used decades, if not hundreds of years over there where they have heavy rain, scorching sun, bugs and humidity.
It’s that real world testing that has earned the trust of builders, homeowners and designers for decks, patios, docks and outdoor structures.
In this guide, you are going to learn absolutely everything there is to know about Red Balau – from where it comes from the way it ages and how long it should last to understanding whether or not its right for your project as well as what exactly red balau timber costs.
Where Red Balau Comes From
Red Balau comes from the Shorea family of trees. These trees grow naturally in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and nearby regions like Borneo and Sumatra. They grow very tall, often reaching 30 to 50 meters, with thick, straight trunks.
The heartwood, which is the main usable part, has a deep red to reddish-brown color. As the wood ages, the color slowly becomes darker and richer. The outer sapwood stays light yellow or pale brown and is usually removed in quality lumber.
Not all Shorea wood is called Red Balau. Only selected species with the right color, strength, and durability are sold under this name. This is why Red Balau looks more even and performs better than mixed woods sold as generic “Meranti.”
In many local markets, Red Balau is also known as Balau Merah or Selangan Batu Merah and is used for heavy-duty construction.
How Red Balau Looks and Feels
Red Balau has a warm, natural appearance. Fresh boards show a reddish-brown tone that slowly deepens over time. If left untreated outdoors, it will turn into a smooth silver-gray color evenly, without ugly patches.
The grain is usually interlocked, which gives the wood a soft ribbon-like pattern, especially on quarter-sawn boards. The surface feels firm and solid, not rough or fuzzy. Compared to cheaper tropical woods, Red Balau has fewer defects, so there is less waste during installation.
When oiled, it takes on a rich, furniture-like finish. Many homeowners love it because it looks premium but still natural, not artificial or glossy.
Strength and Durability Explained Simply
Red Balau is a very strong hardwood. It feels heavy in hand and sinks in water due to its density. This density is one of the reasons it lasts so long outdoors.
It has a Janka hardness ranking of about 1,600 lbf, so that it is more resistant to dents and wear than most North American woods. It can take foot traffic (and furniture and being left outside) without breaking down too fast.
One of the top is resistance to disease. Red Balau does not rot and is resistant to fungus, termites, marine borers and dry wood insects. It doesn’t require chemical treatment to survive outside. And many installations last 25 to 40 years, sometimes even more if done correctly.
It also handles moisture changes better than many woods. While all wood moves slightly, Red Balau has moderate shrinkage and stays more stable than softer alternatives.
Common Uses of Red Balau in Real Projects
Most Common Uses Outdoor decking, and other heavy duty outdoor applications such as steps and walkways. It is one of the most popular outdoor flooring choices because it holds up in wet, sunny conditions.
It is also popular for siding and cladding, especially in tropical and coastal homes. The wood holds its shape well and does not peel or warp easily.
In marine and heavy-use areas, Red Balau is used for docks, piers, boardwalks, boat parts, and wharves. Its resistance to insects and water makes it ideal for these jobs.
It is occasionally used in the household for indoor floors, tables, kitchen countertops, stairs, and wall coverings. Pergolas, gazebos, posts, beams and railings are also used by builders for these purposes too.
Installation Tips That Actually Matter
Red Balau must be installed the right way to get its full lifespan. Boards should be left at the site for about a week so they can adjust to local humidity. This reduces movement later.
Pre-drilling is very important. The wood is dense, so driving screws directly can cause splitting. Stainless steel fasteners are best to avoid stains.
Decks should be raised off the ground with good airflow underneath. Water should never sit under or on the boards. Small gaps between boards help drainage and prevent moisture problems.
Cutting Red Balau requires sharp carbide tools because the wood contains silica. Tools dull faster, but clean cuts are easy with proper blades.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Red Balau does not need heavy maintenance to stay strong. If left untreated, it will naturally turn silver-gray within one to two years. This does not harm the wood at all.
If you want to keep the red-brown color, apply a penetrating oil once or twice a year. Oil finishes soak into the wood instead of forming a surface layer, which works better for dense hardwoods.
Cleaning is simple. Sweep debris often and wash gently once a year with low water pressure. Avoid strong bleach or harsh chemicals.
With basic care and proper installation, Red Balau can easily last decades.
Cost and Value for Money
Red Balau costs less than premium hardwoods like Ipe or Cumaru but more than softwoods like pine or cedar.
On average, prices range from $3 to $6 per board foot.
While the upfront cost is higher than treated pine, the long lifespan and low maintenance often make Red Balau cheaper over time. You replace it far less often, which saves money in the long run.
Sustainability and Responsible Buying
Some Shorea species have faced overharvesting in the past. Because of this, it is important to buy certified wood.
Look for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or similar certifications. These means the wood comes from well-managed forests with re-planting, drawdown programs and legal harvest methods.
Purchasing certified Red Balau helps protect forest sustainability in the long term — and puts your mind at ease.
Red Balau vs Ipe, Cumaru, Meranti
| Feature | Red Balau | Ipe | Cumaru | Meranti |
| Janka Hardness | 1600 lbf | 3500+ lbf | 3300+ lbf | 800–1000 lbf |
| Color Consistency | Even red-brown | Dark olive to brown | Variable red | Mixed tones |
| Price (per bf) | $3–6 | $10–20 | $8–15 | $2–4 |
| Durability | Very high | Extremely high | Very high | Moderate |
| Workability | Needs pre-drilling | Very difficult | Hard on tools | Easier |
Red Balau sits in the middle. It offers strong durability, good looks, and fair pricing without the extreme hardness or cost of top-tier woods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Red Balau and Yellow Balau?
Red Balau is darker, denser, and more durable. Yellow Balau is lighter in color and usually used for indoor work.
Is Red Balau good for pool areas?
Yes. It handles moisture well and does not get dangerously slippery when wet.
Does Red Balau need chemical treatment?
No. Its natural oils protect it from insects and rot.
Can Red Balau be used near saltwater?
Yes. It is commonly used for docks and piers, especially when oiled regularly.
Is Red Balau better than composite decking?
Red Balau feels more natural and lasts longer untreated, but composite requires less maintenance. The choice depends on preference.
Final Thoughts
Smart Consumers choose Red Balau it is a real wood for people who want lasting quality. It can take rain, heat, bugs and heavy use without requiring much care at all. It is rich-looking, sturdy and ages well.
Red Balau can last your home for generations if you purchase certified wood and install it properly. For decks, porches and fascias: It’s one of the best things you can do for your project, as far as looks go, value is concerned.
