Meranti (or Lauan / Philippine Mahogany)
Shorea spp. · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
- Hardness
- 500 to 800 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable, with fair resistance to decay but vulnerable to certain wood-boring insects.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked to straight grain with a medium to coarse texture, typically flat-sawn or rotary-cut as a veneer on plywood panels.
Color & Appearance
Medium reddish-brown to pinkish-brown, sometimes with golden highlights. It tends to darken slightly upon exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
500 to 800 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable, with fair resistance to decay but vulnerable to certain wood-boring insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot equivalent (often sold as sheet goods like Lauan plywood).
- Wood Age Estimate
- 20 to 50 years old, indicated by surface wear, paint splatter, and oxidation patina typical of vintage building materials.
- Sustainability Status
- Varies by specific species within the Shorea genus; many are listed on the IUCN Red List as endangered or vulnerable due to overharvesting.
Common Uses
Plywood manufacturing, interior cabinetry, door skins, paneling, and light furniture.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can sometimes cause tearout during planing. Takes glue and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and lacquers very well. A sanding sealer is recommended before applying polyurethane or lacquer due to open pores.
Notable Features
Often characterized by prominent silica content in some species which can blunt cutting edges, and distinct striped surface patterns when quarter-sawn.
