Lauan (frequently sold as Meranti or Philippine Mahogany)
Shorea spp. • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a coarse, open-pored texture and subtle ribbon figure on quarter-sawn surfaces
Color Description
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with grayish-yellow sapwood. Tends to darken slightly over time and has a low to moderate natural luster.
Hardness Rating
800 lbf (Soft to Medium depending on species density)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if used outdoors without treatment
Common Uses
Plywood cores, door skins, interior trim, light construction, and inexpensive furniture components
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia (specifically the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $6.00 per board foot (lumber) or $45-$70 per 4x8 sheet of high-grade plywood
Wood Age Estimate
Modern stock; likely less than 5 years old based on lack of heavy oxidation and industrial surfacing
Sustainability Status
Several species are listed on the IUCN Red List as Critically Endangered due to over-harvesting; FSC certification is available but rare in big-box retail
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though interlocked grain can cause fuzzy grain or light tearout during planing; glues and finishes well
Notable Features
Often lacks a distinct scent; dust can be an irritant; notable for high strength-to-weight ratio in thin plys
Finish Recommendations
Requires a grain filler for a smooth mirror finish; takes stains well to mimic more expensive mahoganies; water-based or oil-based polyurethanes are recommended
Identification Confidence
High; the visible stringy fibers, open-pore structure, and light reddish-brown hue are classic identifiers of Indonesian/Philippine Meranti-type hardwoods.