Meranti – dark Red
- South East Asia
- Hardwood
- Moderately durable
Dark Red Meranti (a trade name for several Shorea species from Southeast Asia) is a medium-density tropical hardwood typically ranging from deep reddish-brown to dark red tones. It has a moderately coarse texture with a straight to slightly interlocked grain, sometimes producing a subtle ribbon figure. The wood is relatively easy to machine, glue and finish, and offers good dimensional stability when properly seasoned. However, its natural durability is generally low to moderate, meaning it performs best in interior or protected applications unless treated.
In the timber industry, Dark Red Meranti is widely used for joinery, doors, window frames, furniture, panelling and veneers. It is also a common material for plywood manufacture and general construction components due to its availability and workability. In higher grades, it is specified for architectural joinery and interior millwork, where its warm colour and consistent appearance are valued, while treated material may be used for limited exterior applications such as windows and doors.