Planed timber refers to wooden beams or boards that have undergone a process of smoothing on one or more of their sides. This preparation method is common for timber used in various construction and woodworking projects.
Understanding Planed Timber
Based on information from common construction practices, planed timber is essentially wood that has been processed beyond its rough-sawn state. As indicated by references, planed simply means that the beams have been smoothed on one or all sides.
This smoothing is achieved using planing machinery, which shaves off a thin layer from the timber's surface. The result is a piece of wood with consistent dimensions and a significantly smoother finish compared to rough-sawn timber.
Planed timber can be produced from both:
- Hardwood: Timber from deciduous trees (e.g., oak, maple).
- Softwood: Timber from coniferous trees (e.g., pine, spruce).
Why is Timber Planed?
Planing timber serves several practical and aesthetic purposes:
- Improved Appearance: The smooth surface is more visually appealing and ready for finishes like paint, varnish, or stain.
- Safety: Removing splinters and rough edges makes the timber safer to handle and use, especially in applications where it will be touched frequently.
- Accurate Dimensions: Planing helps to achieve precise and consistent sizing, which is crucial for joinery and construction where tight fits are required.
- Ease of Handling: Smoother surfaces are easier to work with during cutting, drilling, and assembly.
Common Types of Planed Timber
While the reference defines the core meaning, practical use categorizes planed timber based on how many sides are smoothed:
- PSE (Planed Square Edge): Typically planed on all four sides and the edges are left relatively sharp or slightly rounded. This is a very common form used in joinery and furniture making.
- PAR (Planed All Round): Planed on all four sides, often with slightly rounded edges for a softer profile. Ideal for visible applications like skirting boards, architraves, and handrails.
| Feature | Rough Sawn Timber | Planed Timber |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Rough, uneven, splinters | Smooth, consistent |
| Dimensions | Less precise | More precise, uniform |
| Appearance | Natural, unfinished look | Clean, ready for finishing |
| Applications | Structural framework, less visible areas | Visible joinery, furniture, trim |
Many construction projects that utilise timber will require it to be planed to meet specific finishing or dimensional requirements.
