Category Archives: Mahogany

Commonly referred to as “Mahogany”, this group of blog posts includes project photos, inspiration galleries, as well as care and maintenance of our Red Balau / Red Batu

Building a Good Neighbor Fence

Everybody knows that a fence makes a good neighbor, but do you know what makes a GREAT neighbor? A well thought out and properly constructed fence that looks good from the inside, as well as outside. This type of fence is a win-win for the whole neighborhood. 

Made from high-quality clear C&Btr Western Red Cedar lumber we supplied, this stunning fence looks great from any angle. Individual dimensional Cedar boards are attached to thicker Cedar boards both on the bottom and top to form a “panel”, then the panels are installed between top quality clear Western Red Cedar posts. With some fine craftsmanship, custom latticework was created just on the backyard area of the fence to add interest and extra height to keep critters in.

A good neighbor fence created from our Clear C&Btr Western Red Cedar dimensional boards
Clear Western Red Cedar crafted privacy fence makes the whole neighborhood happy

With this modern design, our 5/4×6” knotty grade Western Red Cedar decking is installed horizontally on both sides of the 4×4″ posts that have been firmly anchored in the ground. Not only does it add curb appeal and privacy, this type of “good neighbor” fence is less likely to blow down, since the gaps between boards allow the wind to pass through.

Knotty Western Red Cedar decking is installed horizontally on top of 4x4 posts to create a beautiful good neighbor fence

This lovely fence is constructed out of our 5/4×6” Red Balau “Mahogany” decking. While it is a little more costly initially than Western Red Cedar lumber, it won’t break the bank either, and will last for many, many years to come. Due to the durability and strength of the Mahogany, no additional rails or supports are needed between fence posts to attach the hardwood to. This fence will be sag free, with little to no maintenance ever needed.

5/4x6" Mahogany Decking is used for an extremely durable good neighbor fence that will last for many years with little to no maintenance

Take a look at this example of two homeowner’s unique ideas for making a good neighbor fences out of different types of Western Red Cedar lumber on their property. Both look great and express the individual style of the homeowner, while not competing for attention.

Examples of Western Red Cedar fences

We’ve got lots more good neighbor fence inspiration just waiting for you over on Pinterest!

Before your next project, be sure to visit us! We ship to homeowners and contractors nationwide, with local delivery available in the north Puget Sound region.

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

http://www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles

Looking to add natural wood warmth to an existing concrete patio or turn a flat roof into a beautiful new outdoor living space? Our KAYU® Tropical Deck Tiles™ can be installed over any relatively flat surface, including over grass or bare ground. Perfect for porches, patios, gardens, docks, or around the spa.

Easy to install, our Mahogany Deck Tiles are perfect around pools and spas

Constructed from KAYU®-Batu™ “mahogany” that is sustainably harvested from well-managed forests in Malaysia, this natural wood is a rich dark red/brown color. Extremely dense and beautiful, it is an exotic hardwood that is also naturally resistant to rot and decay.

Easily transform a plain space into a stunning new area to enjoy without any special tools or skills.

These deck tiles have an interlocking design base for easy “Do-It-Yourself” installation; using the DeckWise® Deck Tile System, you can attach tiles together easily. No messy glue, no nails, no staples. There will be a perfect match and precision spacing between every tile, every time, guaranteed. Since the deck tiles are made from kiln-dried Red Batu mahogany, there is no need to acclimate the tiles; they are ready to use right out of the box.

Mahogany Tropical Deck Tiles come ready to install

Our KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles can be installed in a straight direction or turned to create any pattern creating a warm and unique living space, as the interlocking tabs on all four sides ensure simple DIY installation.

Boat Deck tiles 2

Because of the natural rot and resistance of the wood, these tiles are perfect for use around docks, spas, and pools.

Available Deck Tile Sizes:

  • 20″ X 20″
  • 24″ X 24″
  • 40″ X 40″

Design your new space by sketching the layout on paper or physically placing the tiles in position on the area that you plan to install the tiles. Easily create unique patterns, designs, and borders by aligning the tiles in different directions. Next, remove the tiles and be sure the area that they will be installed in is clean and free from debris. If installing the tiles over lawn or dirt, lay down a good quality weed barrier to inhibit growth up through the tiles.

Our KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles are pre-drilled to attach the connectors to the tiles easily. Each tile connector comes with 4 ribbed clips already inserted for quickly snapping into the tile fastener holes.  Every connector also comes with 4 molded score lines for easily cutting and trimming with a utility knife to go around decking edges, corners, or any other obstacle. A handsaw, jigsaw, or power saw will be necessary to cut any tiles to fit around pipes or to adjust the tile size to fit in the space. For full installation instructions, including photos, please download the installation guide Mahogany Deck Tile Installation Guide.

To maintain the KAYU Tropical Mahogany Deck Tiles rich color, we recommend applying a good quality deck oil that is formulated for hardwood decking, such as Penofin Hardwood Oil, at appropriate intervals to maintain the rich color. Or, if preferred, the tiles can be left to weather to a soft silver-grey. Either way, the tiles will remain smooth and splinter-free and will perform admirably for many years.

Just as you would with any deck, routine cleaning with a broom, blower, or garden hose is recommended, and periodic power washing is advised.

Red Batu Mahogany deck tiles and siding

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!  We’ve got lots of quality decking products, including the one that is just right for you and your budget!

We ship nationwide!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Wood Decking Comparisons

With so many options on the hard and softwood decking market, it can be a challenge to pick the one that is just right for you, your budget, and your lifestyle.

While researching decking options, it is important to realize that there are many, many different grades and growing areas within any wood species.  The differences in grades and where the wood is grown, milled and graded will affect your decking price, availability, and, most importantly, the performance.

Comparison chart for wood decking that includes cost, durability and fire ratingFor example, within the “cedar” deck board market, there are many grades, grading standards, as well as growing regions within the Pacific Northwest where Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar are grown, which directly affects performance.  Decking cut from premium, clear, mature, coastal grown, Western Red Cedar will outperform decking manufactured from inland grown knotty Cedar boards time and time again.  The same is also true for exotic hardwood decking milled and graded from other countries, including Ipe and Mahogany, two very popular hardwoods that are sold under a variety of brand names, all graded to different brand standards.   

At Cedar Country, we only stock Kayu® Mahogany Batu and Golden Balau “Mahogany” hardwood decking.  Both are similar to Ipe in density, strength, and durability, but without the high price. Sourced from tropical rain forests using sustainable practices, these decking products are 100% natural, 100% organic, 100% clear grade, kiln-dried for consistency, and always carefully inspected by Kayu exclusive graders.

Sourced from sustainable forests, you can count on the quality of our Kayu Red Batu Mahogany decking

Backed with a 25-year limited warranty, when you purchase Mahogany Decking from Cedar Country, you can be sure you are buying the highest quality Kayu® carefully selected hardwoods.  Every time.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!  We ship nationwide!

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington, WA

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

Fence Inspirations

Whether it is to keep critters in or out, define property lines or outdoor spaces, create visual interest or add privacy, a well-thought-out and properly constructed fence adds immediate “curb appeal” to any address.   From rustic to fancy, using real wood in your fence design adds the warmth and beauty that man-made products just can’t duplicate.

Clear and knotty Western Red Cedar Fencing

Western Red Cedar Fencing

Prized for its natural durability and workability, Western Red Cedar has always been a top choice wood for outdoor fences.   For those wishing to create a traditional privacy fence at an economical price, standard 5′ or 6′ fence grade boards are a great choice.  The fence boards are installed vertically by securing them to 2×4’s that have been screwed or nailed into fence posts.

Western Red Cedar Privacy Fence

Another option for a privacy fence that adds a bit more character and interest is to install Western Red Cedar fence boards, deck boards, or fascia grade boards vertically between posts.  Here is a great example

5/4x6" Western Red Cedar Decking Used as Vertically installed Fencing

5/4×6″ Western Red Cedar Decking Used as Fencing

Western Red Cedar grapestake fencing and split rail fencing are popular choices for defining outdoor spaces or property lines when a rustic look is desired.

Western Red Cedar Split Rail Fencing

Western Red Cedar Split Rail Fencing

Another nice, economical, and extremely durable type of fence made from Western Red Cedar and galvanized “hog wire” panels has gained a lot of popularity recently.  It is perfect for defining garden spaces.

Western Red Cedar and Galvanized Hog Wire Garden Fence

Unique and beautiful, this fence is constructed out of varying widths of Cedar boards and stained a beachy-white to compliment the landscape.

Western Red Cedar Fence Ideas

This amazing fence was built by our customer in California using Clear Western Red Cedar dimensional lumber.

custom clear western red cedar fence

Alaska Yellow Cedar Fence

Also extremely durable due it is natural properties, a fence constructed of Alaskan Yellow Cedar will provide many years of carefree service.  In these photos, Yellow Cedar boards are installed vertically to define this landscape.

Alaskan Yellow Cedar Boards used for fencing

Yellow Cypress landscape fence

In this backyard, a combination of 1×3″ and 1×6″Alaskan Yellow Cedar boards are installed vertically to create this outdoor living space.

Alaskan Yellow Cedar back yard privacy fence

Hardwoods Used as Fencing

When the highest quality and durability is wanted, hardwoods such as Red Balau “Mahogany” and Ipe “Ironwood”, can be a naturally beautiful fencing choice.

mahogany fence

5/4×6″ Mahogany Decking Boards are installed vertically between masonry columns

For more fence inspiration, please visit us on Pinterest! We’ve got lots of ideas waiting for you!

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343

950 B Fountain Street, Burlington WA

We ship nationwide!

Red Batu “Mahogany” Decking Installation and Maintenance

Our Red Batu or Balau, commonly referred to as “Mahogany”, hardwood decking is sourced only from countries that are leaders in ecological, sustainable forestry practices. This 100% natural, uniquely beautiful, low-maintenance decking comes with a 25 Year Limited Warranty.

Mahogany Decking

Extremely strong and durable hardwood decking!

Used for over 50 years extensively in the USA and abroad in the most demanding applications such as wharves, boardwalks, fishing boat decks and mineshaft timbers, it is resistant to termites and fungus.

Decking that is easy to maintain!

Penetrating finishes are best at protecting your mahogany deck and minimize
maintenance. We recommend using a finish, such as Penofin, with U.V. inhibitors to reduce fading from sunlight and mildew retardants to minimize black mildew that may form, especially in wet or damp areas.  However, if you wish to let it weather to a beautiful grey, no maintenance other than light pressure washing is ever needed.

All this at a comparable price to similar clear grade softwoods and composite / plastics! 5/4×6″ decking in stock and ready to deliver!

Red Mahogany Decking

Storage and Handling

  • Keep your decking clean, dry and out of direct sunlight before installation and finishing

Finishing

  • For optimum results, seal decking with a high quality penetrating sealer, such as Penofin Hardwood Formula, on all four sides prior to installation if possible
  • Due to the extremely dense properties of this wood, a second field coat is recommended after “seasoning”
  • Use care when applying any finish to wipe away any excess. Do not allow to pool or drip.  For more tips on application, please visit the Penofin website HERE
  • Should you wish to allow your decking to weather to a beautiful silver patina, no finish is necessary
  • No need to wax ends

Ventilation and Air Flow

  • Check and follow all local building codes!
  • Allow adequate ventilation for proper airflow to reduce cupping and checking potential
  • For maximum long term stability, install your deck with a minimum ground clearance of 18″ with at least two sides of the deck open
  • In all cases, it is absolutely necessary to have at least 50% unrestricted air flow
  • Create a slope for drainage so there is no chance of standing water
  • If a minimum ground clearance of 18″ is not available, it is recommended to use 5/4×4″ decking

Spacing

  • Our mahogany decking is kiln dried. Unlike air-dried boards, shrinkage is very limited. However, excessive moisture may cause the boards to expand slightly
  • Install 6″ decking (5-1/2″ net) with a minimum gap of 1/4″ between boards. 4″ decking (3-1/2″ net) should have a minimum of 3/16″ between each board
  • In more demanding applications, such as boat docks, decks built closer to the ground and decks with less airflow, a minimum of 5/16″ for 6″ decking and a minimum of 1/4″ for 4″decking is required
  • This decking does not shrink or expand end to end, so neatly trim ends and butt together

Fastening

  • Pre-drill pilot holes and countersink screws. We recommend using stainless steel fasteners and have countersinking tools in stock available to help
  • Face screwing or edge screwing are the most effective methods of installation
  • Color matched Headcoat Stainless Steel Screws are available and provide beautiful results time and time again
  • Hidden clip fasteners and nails are not recommended and may void warranty

Maximum Allowable Decking Spans

  • 1×4 and 1×6 ~ 16″ on center
  • 5/4×4 and 5/4×6 ~ 24″ on center

Safety

  • Though we have had no reports of irritation of any kind with this hardwood, we still recommend wearing protective eyewear, dust masks and gloves during installation

z3 mahogany

Warranty ~ As provided by KAYU International

KAYU ® International Inc. hereinafter “Warrantor”, warrants that KAYU Batu, which is a naturally durable and stable wood, will not suffer structural damage from rot, termite damage, or fungal decay for at least 25 years, when:

  • Purchased from an official KAYU dealer as our normal “clear grade”
  • Used in a residential structure
  • Installed with a minimum gap between 3-1/2″ boards of at least 3/16″ inches and minimum 1/4″ between 5-1/2″ boards.
  • Installed with a minimum ground clearance of 18 inches; with well ventilated airflow underneath, which means at least two sides of the deck allowing at least 50% unrestricted air-flow. Water must not be allowed to become “standing” underneath the deck and must have proper slopped drainage.
  • Decking is sealed with a high quality penetrating oil sealer, on all four sides prior to installation. Sealing one side can create uneven moisture flow.
  • The installation must meet all applicable construction and safety codes.
  • Purchaser’s sole remedy for any claim will be only for replacement of the KAYU decking material. Warranty does not include any labor or removal of decking.
  • Purchaser is solely responsible for determining whether KAYU Batu meets any applicable safety, building codes, health or other regulations. Warrantor shall not be liable for installation or re-installation costs or for any indirect, punitive, consequential, or exemplary damages of any kind whatsoever arising from purchasers purchase of KAYU Batu or any KAYU decking.
  • KAYU decking products are stable hardwoods, with proven performance in decking applications for decades. Excessive movement is defined as twisting or warping over a half-inch. ANY visible quality issues must be dealt with PRIOR to installation. Minor surface checking is a normal occurrence and is not a warranty issue.
  • The above remedy is exclusive and is in lieu of all other remedies, expressed, implied, or statutory, including but not limited to any and all other obligations, or liabilities. In order to validate the warranty, you must complete and mail the attached warranty card within 100 days of installation.

To validate your warranty

Send the following information to:

KAYU International, Inc. PO BOX 368, West Linn, OR, 97068
You must include:
1. Copy of your purchase receipt
2. Dated photograph showing proper deck spacing (place a ruler/tape measure in the photo
for reference)
3. Your name
4. Your address
5. Where you purchased the decking
6. Date deck completed

Disclaimer
KAYU hardwood decking products are carefully selected and inspected to ensure its finest quality. However, all natural wood is subject to expansion and contraction as the moisture in the environment surrounding the wood changes. Shrinkage, expansion, checking and slight cupping and other movement are normal occurrences in all hardwood decking. Natural wood products are subject to variances in color, grain, density and performance.

Before your next project, be sure to visit us!

We Ship Nationwide!

www.CedarCountryLumber.com

360.757.6343