
Why Choose Red Balau for Siding & Cladding
Red Balau siding brings Southeast Asian hardwood density and durability to exterior cladding applications. At 2,700 Janka — harder than Tigerwood, Garapa, and all domestic siding species — Red Balau provides genuine premium cladding performance from a sourcing region entirely outside South America. For architects and builders seeking geographic diversity in their material supply chain, Red Balau siding delivers excellent performance with a warm, uniform red-brown color.
The warm red-brown tones of Red Balau cladding create an inviting exterior that complements a wide range of architectural styles. The relatively consistent coloring across boards gives Red Balau siding projects a cohesive, refined appearance — less variation than Tigerwood's bold stripes or Cumaru's tonal range.
Red Balau wood siding naturally resists rot, decay, and insects for 40+ years without chemical treatment. The Class A fire rating meets demanding building code requirements. At 58 lbs/ft³, Red Balau is dense enough for excellent impact and weather resistance while being somewhat easier to work with than ultra-dense species like Ipe or Massaranduba — a practical advantage for large siding installations.
For homeowners and builders who want real hardwood cladding at a competitive price with sourcing diversity, Red Balau siding fills a unique niche in the premium siding market. The species has a proven track record in Southeast Asian exterior construction spanning decades.
Siding Profiles Available in Red Balau
Overlapping boards with a distinctive shadow line. Classic exterior look for traditional and modern facades.
Best for: Traditional facade, accent walls
Interlocking boards for a seamless, flush surface. Excellent weather protection with a refined appearance.
Best for: Soffits, porch ceilings, protected walls
Popular Red Balau Siding Products
Red Balau Siding 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 |
| Expected Lifespan (exterior) | 40+ years |
| Color (Fresh) | Warm red-brown |
| Color (Weathered) | Silver-gray patina |
| Available Thicknesses | 1x, 5/4 |
| Available Widths | 4", 6", 8" |
| Available Profiles | Shiplap, Tongue & Groove, Rainscreen, E4E |
| Origin | Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia) |
Available Red Balau Siding Sizes
Installation Essentials for Red Balau Siding
Install Red Balau siding over a proper rainscreen or drainage plane. Pre-drill all fastener holes. Use stainless steel screws (316 grade for coastal). Red Balau's moderate density makes it easier to work with than Ipe or Cumaru. Allow 7-14 days of on-site acclimation. Seal all cut ends immediately. Both horizontal and vertical installations work well.
- Rainscreen/drainage plane — required behind all exterior siding
- Stainless steel fasteners — 316 grade for coastal environments
- Acclimate 7-14 days on-site before installation
- Seal cut ends immediately with end-grain sealer
How Red Balau Siding Compares
Red Balau Siding vs Ipe Siding
Ipe is harder (3,684 vs 2,700 Janka) and lasts longer (up to 75+ vs 40+ years). Red Balau costs less and comes from a different sourcing region — a solid premium siding option at a more accessible price.
Learn more about Ipe SidingRed Balau Siding vs Cumaru Siding
Cumaru is harder (3,330 vs 2,700 Janka) and lasts longer (50+ vs 40+ years) from South America. Red Balau offers SE Asian sourcing diversity with warm red-brown tones at a competitive price.
Learn more about Cumaru SidingRed Balau Siding vs Cedar Siding
Cedar is dramatically less durable (350 vs 2,700 Janka) and lasts only 10-15 years. Red Balau provides nearly 8x the hardness and 3-4x the lifespan — a significant upgrade for any exterior.
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