Lauan (Philippine Mahogany)
Shorea spp. • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Typically straight to interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture and large open pores. Displays a somewhat fibrous appearance on the surface.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light pink to a reddish-brown; sapwood is typically thin and grayish-white. It tends to darken or brown slightly with light exposure, though it lacks the vibrant chatoyance of true Mahogany.
Hardness Rating
Around 500-800 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft depending on specific species)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack, making it unsuitable for exterior use without treatment.
Common Uses
Plywood, interior trim, hollow-core doors, drawer bottoms, cabinetry backings, and inexpensive furniture.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia, primarily the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (standard lumber) or $40-$80 per 4x8 plywood sheet.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (5-20 years); the surface shows a standard commercial flat-cut veneer pattern consistent with late 20th to early 21st-century production.
Sustainability Status
Many Shorea species are listed on the IUCN Red List as Critically Endangered due to over-harvesting; FSC certification is available but less common for entry-level grades.
Workability
Easily worked with hand and machine tools, though the interlocked grain can cause some fuzziness or tearing during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often has a distinct 'fuzzy' feel if not sanded properly; lacks a significant scent; widely used as an economical substitute for genuine mahogany.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to film-forming finishes like lacquer or polyurethane. Due to its large pores, a grain filler is recommended for a high-gloss, smooth finish.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the pore structure, color, and fibrous texture are highly characteristic of utility-grade Lauan plywood or veneer.