Red Meranti
Shorea spp. · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
- Hardness
- 580 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Non-durable regarding decay and insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a somewhat coarse texture and prominent vertical striping typical of quarter-sawn tropical hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Medium to dark reddish-brown heartwood with paler pinkish-brown sapwood. Displays moderate natural luster which tends to darken slightly upon UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
580 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Non-durable regarding decay and insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged (several decades old) based on the oxidation and surface patina visible.
- Sustainability Status
- Many Shorea species are listed on the IUCN Red List as endangered or critically endangered due to overlogging; FSC certified sources are increasingly limited.
Common Uses
Interior cabinetry, furniture, plywood manufacturing, molding, and general light construction.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and varnishes very well. A grain filler may be required prior to applying clear topcoats like polyurethane or lacquer due to the open pore structure.
Notable Features
Characterized by open pores, medium-to-coarse texture, and distinctive ribbon-like grain figures when quarter-sawn.
