Timber iQ April - May 2018 // Issue: 37 | Page 60

CONTRIBUTORS - WOOD WORKS

Continued from page 56

WHY CHOOSE MALAYSIAN MERANTI

• Certified legal and is sustainable

• No additional chemical needed for protection against fungal infestation after proper kiln dried ( KD ) process

• Attractive appearance and easy to work with

• Available grades under Malaysian Grading Rules ( MGR ), 2009 ; select , standard , serviceable , utility and merchantable

A SOUND CHOICE

Malaysian meranti species has established a reputation for quality , making it much sought-after by discerning buyers . They are the recommended hardwoods for outdoor and indoor applications due to their durability , strength and attractive grains .

Timber species from the meranti group have been among the most important timber types exported into Europe for window and door construction for about 40 years . These wood types dominate the market , mainly due to their wide availability and good technical properties . Since the introduction of the European Timber Regulation

( EUTR ), meranti is used increasingly and is set to remain a key timber export to Europe .

STUNNING SHOWCASE OF MALAYSIAN MERANTI

These projects are just a few of the many found in various parts of the world that prove that a discerning eye for aesthetics and a deep understanding of Malaysian meranti timber ’ s technical qualities as a building material , could result in breathtaking functional structures that become icons in themselves . Whatever the design script is , Malaysian timbers such as dark red meranti or red meranti help dramatise and liven up any property ’ s outlook .

VICEROY MALDIVES Viceroy Maldives is a haven of unspoiled nature dotted with palm trees and pristine sand encircling a blue lagoon . The design of the villas is an interpretation of the hull of an inverted Maldivian dhoni – a traditional fishing boat . An interesting mix of Malaysian timbers including meranti was used for different parts of the resort ’ s structure and interiors ranging from roof trusses , ceilings , flooring , doors and windows .

TYPES OF DARK RED MERANTI

Meranti bukit ( Shorea platyclados )

Meranti nemesu ( Shorea pauciflora )

Meranti seraya ( Shorea curtisii )

Colour : deep red brown Colour : deep red Colour : medium red Common application : decking / joinery Common application : staircases Common application : windows

Colour : smooth pink Common application : doors

Colour : soft red Common application : interior furnishing

Density at 15 % moisture content : Density at 15 % moisture content : 420 to 500kg / m 3 400 to 460kg / m 3

ATTRIBUTES Properties Durability Uses

• Average overall strength and hardness

• Good nailing and gluing properties

• Easy to apply finishing

• Little movement in performance

• Easy to work with hand tools and machines

• Reported as relatively-durable in regard to decay resistance and insect attacks

• Treatments will be required for specific applications and usages such as being in contact with the ground or in exposed conditions

• Veneer and plywood

• Joinery

• Doors

• Flooring

• Window frames and sills

• Furniture and cabinet work

• Mouldings

• Decking

• Panelling

• Partitioning and skirtings

• High-class interior finishings

• Naval construction

• General construction work

58 APRIL / MAY 2018 //