
Why Choose Red Balau for Dock Decking
Red Balau dock decking brings Southeast Asian hardwood density to marine construction. At 2,700 Janka — harder than Tigerwood and all domestic species — Red Balau provides genuine premium dock performance from a sourcing region entirely outside South America. For dock builders seeking geographic diversity in their material supply chain or who appreciate Red Balau's warm, uniform red-brown color, this species delivers excellent freshwater dock performance.
Red Balau dock boards provide a splinter-free, barefoot-safe surface with natural rot and insect resistance for 40+ years without chemical treatment. Zero chemicals leach into your waterway — a critical advantage over pressure-treated lumber for lake and river environments. The warm red-brown color creates an inviting dock surface that complements waterfront properties beautifully.
At 58 lbs/ft³ density, Red Balau is dense enough for serious dock applications while being somewhat easier to work with than ultra-dense species like Ipe or Massaranduba. The species has a long track record in Southeast Asian marine construction, including bridges, boardwalks, and waterfront structures. For freshwater docks and low-salinity coastal environments, Red Balau delivers strong value at a competitive price point.
Also used for residential decking → Shop Red Balau Decking
Recommended Red Balau Dock Board Sizes
5/4x6
Standard residential and marina dock boards. Best balance of strength and value.
Shop 5/4x62x6
Commercial docks, public piers, heavy load applications. Maximum durability.
Shop 2x61x6
Residential lake docks and smaller private piers. Economical option.
Shop 1x65/4x4
Narrow finger piers and walkways. Compact dock builds.
Shop 5/4x4Dock Applications for Red Balau
Boat Docks
Private residential boat docks on lakes, rivers, and coastal waterways.
Marinas
Commercial marina finger piers, main docks, and fuel dock platforms.
Piers & Jetties
Public and private fishing piers, jetties, and waterfront walks.
Floating Docks
Floating dock platforms and gangways.
Kayak Launches
Kayak and canoe launch platforms and ramps.
Seawalls / Caps
Seawall cap boards and waterfront edging.
Red Balau Dock Decking Specifications
| Botanical Name | Shorea spp. |
| Common Names | Red Balau, Selangan Batu |
| Janka Hardness | 2,700 lbf |
| Density | 58 lbs/ft³ |
| Durability Class | Class 1-2 |
| Fire Rating | Class A (ASTM E84) |
| Rot Resistance | Very Good |
| Insect Resistance | Very Good |
| Marine Borer Resistance | Good — best for freshwater and low-salinity coastal |
| Saltwater Suitability | Good — freshwater and low-salinity recommended |
| Expected Dock Lifespan | 40+ years |
| Color (Fresh) | Warm red-brown |
| Color (Weathered) | Silver-gray patina |
| Chemical Treatment Required | No |
| Recommended Dock Sizes | 5/4x6, 2x6, 1x6, 5/4x4 |
| Origin | Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia) |
Dock Installation Tips for Red Balau
Use 316 stainless steel fasteners for any marine environment. Joist spacing: 16" OC standard. Leave 3/16" gaps for drainage. Pre-drill all holes. Seal all cut ends. Acclimate 7-14 days before installation. Red Balau's moderate density makes it easier to work with than Ipe or Massaranduba while still providing excellent dock performance.
Red Balau Dock vs. The Alternatives
| Feature | Red Balau | PT Pine | Composite | PVC/Vinyl | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dock Lifespan | 40+ yrs | 10-15 yrs | 15-20 yrs | 15-20 yrs | 30+ yrs |
| Marine Borer Resistance | Natural | Chemical (fails) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Chemical Leaching | None | Yes — CCA/ACQ | Microplastics | Microplastics | None |
| Slip Resistance (wet) | Excellent | Poor | Moderate | Poor | Moderate |
| Barefoot Safety | Excellent | Poor — splinters | Hot in sun | Hot in sun | Hot in sun |
| Structural Strength | Very high | Moderate | Low | Low | High |
| Environmental Impact | Natural | Chemical-treated | Plastic-based | Plastic-based | Energy-intensive |
| Cost (50-year) | Lowest | Highest (replace 3-4x) | Higher | Higher | Moderate |
Red Balau Dock vs Pressure-Treated Dock
PT dock lumber lasts 10-15 years and leaches chemicals. Red Balau lasts 40+ years with zero chemicals. The warm red-brown color and splinter-free surface make Red Balau a significant upgrade from PT for any dock project.
Red Balau Dock vs Ipe Dock
Ipe is harder (3,684 vs 2,700 Janka) with better saltwater performance and longer lifespan (75+ vs 40+ years). Red Balau costs less and comes from Southeast Asia — a good alternative for freshwater docks where maximum density isn't critical.
Learn moreRed Balau Dock vs Cumaru Dock
Cumaru is harder (3,330 vs 2,700 Janka) and lasts longer (50+ vs 40+ years). Red Balau offers a different sourcing region (SE Asia vs South America) and a unique warm red-brown color at a competitive price.
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