Plywood with Lauan/Meranti Face
Shorea spp. • Engineered
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain; flat-sawn rotary cut veneer displaying a diffuse-porous cathedral figure with a coarse, open-textured appearance.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a pale reddish-brown to grayish-pink, while sapwood is lighter and not clearly demarcated in this veneer. It shows low natural luster and tends to darken or gray slightly when exposed to light without a finish.
Hardness Rating
730 lbf (Soft to Medium depending on specific Shorea species)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack, typically intended for indoor use only.
Common Uses
Plywood facing, utility applications, cabinet backing, drawer bottoms, underlayment, and low-cost furniture components.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia (primarily Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot (standard utility grade sheet prices vary by thickness).
Wood Age Estimate
Contemporary/Modern; the fresh surface and mechanical sanding marks suggest this is a recent manufacturing offcut, likely less than 2-5 years old.
Sustainability Status
Several Shorea species are listed on the IUCN Red List as Critically Endangered due to habitat loss; FSC certification is available but not standard for all Lauan products.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools; however, the interlocked grain can cause fuzzy surfaces during sanding. Glues and finishes well, though the open pores may require filling for a smooth look.
Notable Features
Often referred to as "Philippine Mahogany" despite not being a true mahogany. It has a distinctively coarse texture and lacks a notable scent.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a sealer or grain filler if a high-gloss finish is desired. Works well with polyurethane, lacquer, or simple oil-based stains to even out color variation.
Identification Confidence
High; the rotary-cut veneer pattern, characteristic reddish-gray hue, and coarse texture are quintessential markers of Lauan/Meranti utility plywood.