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What is Bankirai wood?
Bangkirai wood: Sustainability and beauty for outdoor projects
Bangkirai, also known as Bangkirai or Yellow Balau, is a tropical hardwood species that originates from the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia. This wood type, sourced from trees of the Shorea genus, has captured the hearts of wood enthusiasts and builders thanks to its excellent properties for outdoor applications. Let’s delve deeper into what makes Bangkirai so special.
Origin and botanical details
| Country of Origin | Botanical Name |
|---|---|
| Indonesia | Shorea laevis |
| Malaysia | Shorea glauca |
Appearance and structure
Bangkirai wood stands out due to its attractive appearance and structural properties:
- Heartwood: Gold-brown to dark brown, sometimes with a reddish hue
- Sapwood: Lighter and clearly distinguishable from the heartwood
- Texture: Fine to moderately coarse grain with a uniform structure
- Grain: Straight to interlocked
Sustainability and physical properties
One of the most remarkable features of Bangkirai is its excellent durability. It belongs to durability class 1, which means it has a lifespan of over 25 years, even in ground contact. This property makes it ideal for outdoor applications.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Average density | 850-1100 kg/m³ |
| Radial shrinkage | 0.5% |
| Tangential shrinkage | 0.9% |
| Working | Moderate |
| Bending strength | 110-130 N/mm² |
| Modulus of elasticity | 15,000-18,000 N/mm² |
| Compressive strength (parallel to the grain) | 60-70 N/mm² |
| Hardness (Janka) – Longitudinal | 6500-7000 N |
Workability and finishing
Although Bangkirai is reasonably easy to work with, its high density requires some specific considerations:
- Sawing and planing: Good, but tools wear out quickly
- Nailing and screwing: Pre-drilling is necessary
- Gluing: Good
- Finishing: Absorbs stains and paints well
For the best results, it is advisable to work with sharp tools and take precautions against dust. Check out our accessories collection for suitable woodworking tools.
Applications of Bangkirai
Decking boards
Bangkirai is a top choice for durable decking boards due to its weather resistance.
Garden furniture
Ideal for hardwood garden benches and tables that will last for generations.
Cladding
Provides an attractive and durable option for exterior cladding of buildings.
Water construction
Suitable for bridges, docks, and locks due to its high moisture resistance.
Comparison with other wood types
To put Bangkirai in perspective, we compare it with some other popular hardwoods:
| Property | Bangkirai | Ipe | Teak | Cumaru |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durability class | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Average density | 850-1100 kg/m³ | 1050 kg/m³ | 650-750 kg/m³ | 1000-1150 kg/m³ |
| Color | Gold-brown to dark brown | Dark brown | Gold-brown, graying in the sun | Light brown to reddish-brown |
| Workability | Good, but tools wear out quickly | Difficult, very hard | Very good, easy to work with | Difficult, very hard |
| Cost | Average | High | Very high | High |
Maintenance and care
To maintain the lifespan and beauty of Bangkirai, regular maintenance is essential:
- Clean the wood regularly with a soft brush and mild soap solution
- Treat it annually with a suitable hardwood oil for optimal protection
- Remove stains as soon as possible to prevent discoloration
- Allow new Bangkirai to acclimatize before use to minimize warping
Frequently asked questions about Bangkirai
Is Bangkirai environmentally friendly?
Bangkirai can be sustainable if sourced from responsibly managed forests. Opt for wood with an FSC or PEFC certification to minimize ecological impact.
How long does a Bangkirai terrace last?
With proper maintenance, a Bangkirai terrace can last over 25 years, even with intensive use and exposure to the elements.
Can I work with Bangkirai myself?
Yes, but be prepared for the hardness of the wood. Use sharp tools and take precautions against dust. For complex projects, you may also consider purchasing ready-made hardwood products.
Conclusion: Bangkirai as a sustainable choice for outdoor projects
Bangkirai wood offers an excellent combination of durability, strength, and aesthetics for outdoor constructions. Although it requires slightly more maintenance than some alternatives, its long lifespan and natural beauty make it a popular choice for terraces, garden furniture, and other outdoor applications.
Whether you are planning a new terrace, want to create outdoor furniture, or are looking for sustainable cladding, Bangkirai is an investment that will stand the test of time. Discover our collection of hardwood products to start your next project with Bangkirai!