Southeast Asian hardwood offering exceptional strength and warm tones
Batu (also known as Red Balau) is a premium Southeast Asian hardwood prized for its incredible density, strength, and rich reddish-brown color. Similar in performance to Ipe but often more affordably priced, Batu delivers outstanding durability and a beautiful, distinctive appearance that deepens with age. Its exceptional weather resistance makes it ideal for challenging climates.
Real installations showcasing horizontal batu fencing
Best For
•Coastal properties with salt air exposure
•Modern homes seeking premium hardwood at better value than Ipe
•High-traffic areas requiring maximum durability
•Homeowners wanting rich, warm color tones
•Fire-prone regions (high fire resistance)
•Properties in harsh weather climates (extreme heat, cold, or moisture)
Key Features & Benefits
Exceptionally dense and durable hardwood
Rich reddish-brown color with natural luster
High natural oil content resists moisture and decay
Excellent dimensional stability - minimal warping
Class A fire resistance rating
Natural insect and rot resistance without treatment
Can last 30-40+ years with minimal maintenance
Sustainably harvested from managed forests
Pros
Outstanding longevity (30-40+ years)
More affordable than Ipe while still premium quality
Beautiful warm color that ages well
Extremely hard and scratch-resistant
Excellent for coastal and extreme climates
Fire resistant - safe for wildfire zones
Requires periodic sealing to maintain color
Resists mold, mildew, and rot naturally
Cons
Higher upfront cost than domestic woods
Very hard - requires pre-drilling for fasteners
Specialized tools needed for cutting and installation
Heavy - requires robust framing support
Can have natural color variations between boards
Will weather to gray-brown without maintenance
Natural silica content can dull saw blades quickly
Materials & Specifications
pickets
Batu (Red Balau) hardwood - 1x6 or 1x4, select or premium grade for uniform color
posts
4x4 pressure-treated or steel posts (black or galvanized) to support heavy weight
framing
Pressure-treated 2x6 Douglas Fir rails, marine-grade stainless steel fasteners required
hardware
316 marine-grade stainless steel screws and brackets (essential to prevent rust with Batu's natural acids)
