Building Investment (September-October 2021)

OUTLOOK
Malaysian door manufacturers have
been producing hardwood doors for
decades from a wide range of timber
species that are awe-inspiring in both
design and versatility.
Timbers such as Balau, Melunak,
Dark Red Meranti, Kembang Semangkok,
Merbau, Merpauh and Nyatoh make up
the range while some doors are overlaid
with temperate species such as Oak,
Walnut, Cherry and Makore.
Fire-resistant doors with a plush look
are also available where these doors
are given a variety of styling without
compromising the international fireresistant
ratings. Species like Balau and
Melunak, a heavy and light hardwood,
respectively, are fine pickings as timber
doors.
➢ Balau
A heavy hardwood with a density
of 850-1,155kg/m 3 that is yellow
to brown in colour. The sapwood is
lighter in colour and is sharply defined
from the heartwood which is yellow
or grey-brown and darkens to deep
brown on exposure. The texture is
fine and even with deeply interlocked
grains.
➢ Melunak
A light hardwood with a density of
530-755kg/m 3 air dried. The sapwood
is yellow or light straw-coloured and is
moderately sharply defined from the
heartwood which is brown with a red
or pink tinge or red-brown. Texture
is moderately fine and even with
shallowly to deeply interlocked grains.
Available in both solid and engineered
forms, Malaysian timber doors come in
many designs, sizes, and specifications to
suit the needs of discerning customers.
They are also highly sought-after for their
quality workmanship that meets stringent
European standards. Using state-of-theart
technology, Malaysian manufacturers
are well-placed to serve customers
globally, whether for small, custom-made
o r d e r s o r l a r g e o n e s o f s t a n d a r d p r o d u c t s .
WINDOW FRAMES
One of the most traditional choices
for window frames is timber. Wooden
window frames are known for their
durability and can last a lifetime if
properly maintained. They also offer great
aesthetics, thanks to timbers detailed
grains.
Malaysian manufacturers have been
producing stylish selections of timber
window frames in a variety of finishes
with quality timbers and precision
craftmanship as well as laminated
scantlings. Species such as Dark Red
Meranti, Yellow Meranti, Kasai, Merpauh,
Bintagor, Gerutu, Mengkulang and
Kembang Semangkok have been used for
this purpose. The thermal efficiency of
any home can be improved significantly
as timber is a natural insulator and the
combination of timber window frames
and double glazing provide considerable
savings in energy cost.
You can easily find the perfect
timber window frame be it casement
or sash windows. These window frames
also come with a range of hardware
comprising timber window screens,
secure locks, and fashionable handles.
The window frames and hardware can
be configured to suit your requirement.
All weak points between the frames and
glass are also protected well to withstand
changeable and harsh weather conditions.
Exceptionally secure, classy, and hardwearing,
timber window frames offer the
best of both worlds without compromise.
➢ Dark Red Meranti
A light hardwood with a density of
415-855kg/m 3 air dry. The sapwood
is pink with a grey tinge and is not
clearly defined from the heartwood,
which is medium red to deep red
to deep red-brown. Texture is
moderately coarse and even with
interlocked grain. It is easy to saw and
work and produces a smooth planed
surface.
➢ Gerutu
A light hardwood with a density of
640-880kg/m 3 air dry. The sapwood
is whitish yellow and is moderately
distinct from the heartwood, which
is light golden brown and darkens to
a deep brown on exposure. Texture
is moderately coarse and even with
interlocked grains.
26 September-October 2021 | www.b-i.biz