Planed All Round: A Complete Guide to Smooth Timber
Planed all round timber is a popular choice for woodworking, DIY projects, furniture making, shelving, and interior improvements. Known for its smooth finish and accurately prepared surfaces, this type of timber is suitable for projects where appearance, ease of handling, and consistent dimensions matter. Whether you are building a bookcase, creating a wooden frame, installing decorative trim, or completing a home renovation, understanding planed all round wood can help you select the right material. The term planed all round describes timber that has been machined on all four sides to produce smooth faces and edges. It is often abbreviated to PAR in timber yards and building supply stores. Compared with rough-sawn timber, planed all round wood generally requires less preparation before it can be measured, cut, assembled, stained, or painted. However, the right choice depends on the timber species, actual dimensions, moisture content, intended application, and whether the finished project will be used indoors or outdoors. Understanding these factors makes it easier to buy suitable timber and achieve a professional result.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main keyword | Planed all round |
| Common abbreviation | PAR |
| Material | Solid timber, available in different wood species |
| Surface finish | Smooth faces and edges |
| Manufacturing process | Timber is machined on all four sides |
| Common uses | Shelving, furniture, frames, trim, and DIY projects |
| Typical shapes | Rectangular lengths, square sections, and moulded profiles |
| Available sizes | Vary by timber species, supplier, and product |
| Finishing options | Painting, staining, oiling, varnishing, or leaving unfinished |
| Main advantages | Easier handling, a clean appearance, and reduced surface preparation |
| Important considerations | Actual dimensions, timber quality, moisture, and intended use |
What Is Planed All Round Timber?
Planed all round timber is wood that has been processed using planing equipment to create a smooth surface on all four sides. The process removes irregularities, rough saw marks, and small surface imperfections, leaving the timber easier to handle and work with. The term refers to the finish rather than a particular wood species. Planed all round products may be manufactured from softwoods such as pine or spruce, or from hardwoods depending on the supplier and application. The timber is usually supplied in straight lengths with a consistent rectangular or square cross-section. This makes it useful for projects that require relatively uniform dimensions and a neat finish.
What Does PAR Mean in Timber?
PAR stands for planed all round. It is a widely used abbreviation in the timber trade and describes wood that has been planed on its four longitudinal sides. A piece of PAR timber has two broad faces and two narrower edges. All four surfaces are machined to provide a smoother, more uniform appearance than untreated rough-sawn wood. It is important to understand that planed all round does not automatically mean the timber is perfectly straight, completely free from knots, or suitable for every structural application. Timber quality, grading, moisture content, and manufacturing tolerances still matter.
How Is Planed All Round Wood Made?
The manufacturing process generally involves several stages.
- Timber selection: Suitable timber is selected according to the required dimensions, species, and intended application.
- Initial sawing: The wood is sawn into manageable boards or sections.
- Drying: Depending on the product, the timber is dried to reduce moisture and improve dimensional stability.
- Planing: Machinery removes a thin layer of wood from the faces and edges to create a smoother finish.
- Sizing and inspection: The timber is checked for dimensions, surface quality, and visible defects.
- Storage and distribution: Finished lengths are stored and transported to retailers, timber yards, or customers.
The exact process varies by manufacturer. Some timber is supplied kiln-dried, while other products may have different moisture specifications. Buyers should check the product description rather than assume that every planed all round board has the same treatment.
Main Features of Planed All Round Timber
Planed all round timber offers several practical advantages that make it suitable for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
1. Smooth Surface Finish
The most noticeable feature is its smooth surface. Unlike rough-sawn wood, which may have visible saw marks and uneven areas, PAR timber has been machined to create a cleaner appearance. This finish is particularly useful for furniture, shelving, decorative frames, and other projects where the timber remains visible. Although the surface is smooth, light sanding may still be needed before applying paint, varnish, or oil.
2. Consistent Dimensions
Planing helps produce a more uniform cross-section, making it easier to measure, cut, and assemble timber components. This is beneficial when building frames, joining multiple pieces together, or creating furniture parts that need to fit accurately. Nevertheless, natural timber can still vary slightly, so precise projects should be based on the supplier’s stated finished dimensions.
3. Easier Handling
Smooth faces and edges are generally more comfortable to handle than rough-sawn surfaces. However, some PAR timber is manufactured with sharp corners, so it should still be handled carefully. Sanding or lightly easing the edges can make the finished component more comfortable to touch, especially for furniture, handrails, and frequently handled wooden items.
4. Suitable for Different Finishes
Planed all round wood can be painted, stained, oiled, or varnished, provided the species and treatment are compatible with the selected finish. A clear varnish can highlight the natural grain, while paint can create a consistent colour. Stains can alter the appearance without completely hiding the wood’s grain. The timber should be clean, dry enough for the chosen finish, and properly prepared before finishing products are applied.
5. Wide Range of Applications
PAR timber is available in different thicknesses, widths, lengths, and wood species. This versatility makes it useful for small decorative projects as well as larger furniture components. The appropriate size and grade depend on the job. Timber used for a lightweight shelf may have very different requirements from timber intended for a load-bearing structure.
Common Uses of Planed All Round Timber
One reason planed all round timber is widely used in DIY is its combination of a neat finish and practical workability. Popular applications include:
Shelving and Storage
PAR timber can be used for bookshelves, display shelves, cupboard components, and storage units. Select a suitable thickness and support arrangement based on shelf span and expected weight.
Furniture Making
It is suitable for table frames, small benches, stools, cabinets, and other furniture components. The smooth finish reduces the amount of initial preparation required.
Frames and Interior Trim
PAR timber is useful for decorative frames, cover strips, internal trim, and selected door or window components where the profile and dimensions are appropriate.
Planters and Garden Projects
Suitable timber can be used to make planter boxes, garden furniture, and decorative outdoor features. Outdoor projects require careful consideration of durability, moisture exposure, and preservative treatment.
DIY Repairs and Home Improvements
Planed all round timber is also useful for everyday home improvement work. It can provide replacement battens, decorative borders, small support pieces, and finishing details. Because the surfaces are already machined, it can save time on projects where a clean appearance is important. Before using it for repairs, however, check whether the component needs to meet structural or building requirements.
Craft Projects and Decorative Woodwork
Small PAR sections can be used for picture frames, wooden organisers, model-making, decorative panels, and other craft projects. Its predictable shape makes it easier to create repeated components and achieve a consistent result. For detailed work, choose timber with minimal knots, limited surface defects, and a grain pattern appropriate for the intended appearance.
Types of Wood Available as Planed All Round Timber
PAR describes the machining finish, not the species of wood. Different timber species have different strengths, grain patterns, costs, and resistance to moisture.
Softwood Planed Timber
Softwoods such as pine and spruce are commonly used for general DIY, interior joinery, shelving, and furniture. They are often easier to cut and work with than many hardwoods. Pine can feature visible knots and contrasting grain, making it suitable for both rustic and painted finishes. Spruce often has a relatively light colour and straight grain, although its properties depend on the particular grade and source. Softwood PAR is often an economical option for household projects, but untreated softwood should not automatically be considered suitable for persistently damp or exposed outdoor conditions.
Hardwood Planed Timber
Hardwoods such as oak, beech, and ash may also be available in planed form. They are popular for furniture, decorative joinery, worktops, and other projects where appearance or particular material properties are important. Oak is valued for its distinctive grain and traditional appearance. Beech generally has a fine, relatively uniform grain, while ash often has a prominent grain pattern. Hardwood PAR may cost more than comparable softwood, and its suitability depends on the species, grade, moisture content, and intended use. Hardness alone does not determine whether a timber is appropriate for a structural application.
Treated and Untreated PAR Timber
Untreated timber is commonly selected for interior projects where the wood will remain in a suitable dry environment. It can be finished with compatible paint, oil, stain, or varnish. Treated timber has undergone a preservation process designed for particular exposure conditions. Products may be intended for interior or exterior applications, depending on the treatment and manufacturer’s specifications. Do not assume that all planed all round timber is pressure-treated, weather-resistant, or suitable for contact with soil. Check the product description and treatment instructions before buying.
Planed All Round Timber Sizes and Dimensions
Planed all round timber is available in a variety of sizes, from narrow strips for decorative work to wider boards for shelving and furniture. Some products are sold individually, while others are available in packs. The correct dimensions depend on the project, the supplier’s product range, and the amount of material removed during machining.
Nominal Size vs Finished Size
One of the most important details when buying PAR timber is the difference between nominal and finished dimensions.
- Nominal size: The original or traditional size used to describe the timber before planing.
- Finished size: The actual dimensions of the timber after machining.
For example, timber described as approximately 100 mm wide and 25 mm thick might have finished dimensions around 94 mm wide and 20 mm thick. This is an illustrative example, not a universal sizing rule. Actual reductions vary by product and manufacturer. Always check the stated finished size before designing joints, calculating clearances, or purchasing timber for a project that requires precise measurements.
Common Size Options
The following table gives examples of the kinds of dimensions available in planed all round timber. Availability varies by product and retailer.
| Approximate product dimensions | Typical applications |
|---|---|
| 20 x 20 mm | Small frames and craft projects |
| 38 x 38 mm | Light-duty framing and furniture components |
| 70 x 20 mm | Narrow boards, trims, and decorative work |
| 95 x 20 mm | Shelving components and general DIY |
| 120 x 20 mm | Wider boards and furniture panels |
| 170 x 20 mm | Wider decorative boards and selected DIY projects |
These examples are intended as a general guide, not a specification for structural use. Check the actual finished dimensions of the product you intend to purchase.
Planed All Round vs Rough-Sawn Timber
Both PAR and rough-sawn timber have their place in woodworking, but they serve different needs.
| Feature | Planed all round |
|---|---|
| Surface | Smooth and machined |
| Appearance | More finished |
| Initial preparation | Often less |
| Dimensional consistency | Generally more uniform |
| Typical use | Visible joinery and furniture |
| Cost | Often higher for comparable starting timber |
PAR timber is often the better choice when the finished appearance matters. Rough-sawn timber may be more economical when the wood will be covered or when the project requires a different final size or profile. However, neither finish automatically establishes the timber’s structural strength. The appropriate grade and specification must be selected separately.
Planed All Round vs Planed Square Edge Timber
The terms PAR and PSE are sometimes used interchangeably in the timber trade, although they describe slightly different aspects of preparation. PAR, or planed all round, specifically indicates that all four longitudinal faces have been planed. PSE, or planed square edge, commonly describes timber machined to create smooth surfaces and square edges. In many retail settings, PSE products are finished on all four sides as well. If a project requires square corners, rounded edges, or a particular cross-sectional profile, confirm those details in the product specification rather than relying on the abbreviation alone.
How to Choose the Right Planed All Round Timber
Selecting the right timber involves more than choosing a suitable width and thickness. Consider the following factors before purchasing.
1. Identify the Intended Use
Start by deciding whether the timber will be used for shelving, furniture, decorative trim, garden projects, or construction. For visible interior work, appearance and smoothness may be priorities. For structural applications, strength grading, load requirements, and compliance with applicable building standards are more important. Do not assume that an ungraded PAR board is suitable for load-bearing construction simply because it looks thick or sturdy.
2. Select the Correct Dimensions
Measure the available space and determine the finished dimensions required for the project. Allow for cutting waste, joints, and any material that may need to be removed during finishing. If several boards must fit together, measure the actual pieces before assembly. For shelves, also consider the span between supports and the weight of the items that will be stored.
3. Inspect the Timber Quality
Natural wood can contain knots, grain variations, shakes, small splits, and other characteristics. These are not necessarily defects that make a board unusable, but their importance depends on the application. Choose relatively straight pieces with appropriate grain and minimal defects in critical areas. Avoid timber with significant twisting, excessive bowing, or damage that could compromise the finished project.
4. Consider Moisture Content
Wood responds to changes in humidity by absorbing or releasing moisture. This can cause expansion, shrinkage, warping, or small changes in dimensions. Kiln-dried timber is often a practical choice for interior furniture and joinery, but it can still move after installation. Where dimensional accuracy matters, allow the timber to acclimatise to the working environment when appropriate and follow the supplier’s recommendations.
5. Compare Price and Quantity
PAR timber may cost more than rough-sawn alternatives because additional machining is required. Nevertheless, the smoother finish can reduce preparation time and help simplify smaller projects. Compare the price per usable length or per metre, the number of pieces in a pack, the actual finished dimensions, and any delivery charges. Buying a larger pack is not necessarily more economical if much of the material will go unused.
How to Cut and Work With Planed All Round Timber
Although PAR timber is already machined, accurate cutting and assembly remain important.
Tools You May Need
Depending on the project, useful tools include:
- Tape measure and pencil for marking.
- Combination square for checking right angles.
- Hand saw or circular saw for cutting.
- Drill and suitable drill bits for pilot holes.
- Clamps to hold pieces during assembly.
- Sandpaper for smoothing cut ends and edges.
- Wood screws, suitable adhesive, or other appropriate fixings.
Wear suitable eye and hearing protection when using powered tools, secure the workpiece, and follow the tool manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Cutting and Assembly Tips
Measure each cut carefully and mark a clear cutting line. Support the timber securely to reduce movement and splintering during sawing. When screwing near the end of a board, a pilot hole can help reduce the risk of splitting, particularly in narrow sections or brittle timber. Choose screws and adhesives appropriate to the wood species and environment. Check that assembled parts are square before tightening fixings fully. After cutting, lightly sand the ends if needed to remove splinters and improve the finish.
Finishing and Maintaining PAR Timber
A suitable finish can improve the appearance of planed timber and help protect it from everyday wear.
Painting
Paint is a useful option when the timber needs to match a room’s colour scheme. Prepare the surface according to the paint manufacturer’s instructions, use a compatible primer where necessary, and apply the recommended number of coats.
Staining and Varnishing
Wood stain can deepen or alter the colour while allowing much of the grain to remain visible. Varnish provides a surface coating that can help protect the wood against handling and ordinary wear. Test the finish on an offcut first because different species and grain patterns can absorb products unevenly.
Oiling
Wood oils can enhance the natural grain and create a particular surface appearance. Select an oil designed for the intended application and follow its instructions for application, drying, and maintenance.
Outdoor Protection
For garden furniture, planters, and other exposed projects, choose timber suitable for the expected conditions. Apply compatible exterior protection where required, including attention to cut ends, joints, and exposed surfaces. No finish makes unsuitable timber permanently waterproof. Good drainage, ventilation, appropriate detailing, and regular inspection remain important.
Is Planed All Round Timber Suitable for Outdoor Use?
Planed all round timber can be used outdoors when its species, treatment, and construction details are appropriate for the environment. For example, suitable treated softwood may be used for selected garden structures, planters, and exterior decorative features. Untreated timber exposed to repeated wetting may be vulnerable to fungal decay, swelling, and other moisture-related problems. Before choosing timber for an outdoor project, consider:
- How much rain and direct sunlight it will receive.
- Whether the timber will contact soil or standing water.
- Whether the species is naturally durable or requires treatment.
- Whether the preservative is suitable for the intended exposure.
- How water will drain away from joints and horizontal surfaces.
For ground-contact applications or projects with demanding exposure conditions, follow the timber supplier’s treatment specifications and relevant construction guidance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying PAR Timber
Several avoidable mistakes can lead to wasted material or disappointing results.
- Ignoring finished dimensions: Nominal sizes may not match the actual width and thickness after planing.
- Choosing by appearance alone: A smooth finish does not guarantee a particular strength grade.
- Overlooking natural defects: Knots and splits can affect appearance, machining, and suitability for specific joints.
- Using untreated timber in unsuitable conditions: Moisture exposure can lead to decay and dimensional changes.
- Failing to calculate waste: Cutting plans should account for saw cuts, offcuts, and defects.
- Applying finishes without preparation: Dust, moisture, and incompatible products can affect the final result.
- Assuming every PAR product is identical: Timber species, drying methods, grading, edge details, and tolerances vary.
By checking these factors before purchase, you can choose timber that is better suited to your budget, project dimensions, and desired finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planed All Round Timber
What does planed all round mean?
Planed all round means timber has been machined to create smooth surfaces on all four longitudinal sides. It is commonly used for furniture, shelving, joinery, and DIY projects where a clean finish is desirable.
Is planed all round timber ready to use?
It is often ready for measuring, cutting, and assembly without extensive initial planing. However, sanding, trimming, sealing, or painting may still be necessary depending on the project and desired finish.
Is PAR timber stronger than rough-sawn timber?
Not necessarily. Planing changes the surface and dimensions, but it does not automatically improve the timber’s strength. Strength depends on factors such as species, grade, defects, moisture content, dimensions, and intended loading.
Can planed all round timber be painted?
Yes. Many PAR timber products can be painted, stained, oiled, or varnished. The surface must be properly prepared, and the chosen product must be compatible with the timber and its treatment.
Is planed all round timber expensive?
It is often more expensive than comparable rough-sawn timber because machining adds processing costs. However, it may save time and effort on projects that need a smooth finish.
What is the difference between PAR and CLS timber?
PAR describes timber machined on all four sides to provide a smooth finish. CLS, meaning Canadian Lumber Standard, commonly refers in the UK market to regularised softwood framing timber with eased or rounded corners. The products can differ in dimensions, edge profiles, grading, and intended use.
Can PAR timber be used for structural work?
Only when the specific timber product has the required structural grade, dimensions, and suitability for the application. The PAR finish alone does not establish structural performance. For load-bearing work, use appropriately specified and graded timber.
Does planed all round timber need sanding?
Not always. The surfaces are already planed, but light sanding may improve the finish before painting or varnishing. Cut ends and sharp edges may also need additional preparation.
Conclusion
Planed all round timber is a practical choice for DIY enthusiasts, carpenters, and woodworkers who want smooth, consistently machined wood for visible and decorative projects. Its versatility makes it useful for shelving, furniture, interior trim, craft work, and selected outdoor applications. The most important considerations are the timber species, actual finished dimensions, moisture content, visible defects, and suitability for the intended environment. Buyers should also distinguish between a smooth finish and a structural strength rating, since these describe different properties. With careful selection, accurate measuring, appropriate fixings, and suitable finishing, planed all round timber can help produce attractive and durable woodworking results.
