Wood is one of the oldest and most versatile materials used by humanity. From shelter building in ancient civilizations to modern architectural marvels, timber has played a central role in shaping the world around us. As woodworking advanced, so did the techniques for refining timber to meet different needs. One of the most common phrases you’ll hear in woodworking, construction, and furniture making is “planed all round” (often abbreviated as PAR).
For someone new to woodworking, the term might sound confusing, but it simply refers to timber that has been smoothed on all sides by a planer, creating a consistent, flat, and splinter-free finish. This preparation makes the wood ready for direct use in projects, eliminating much of the rough surface associated with sawn timber.
In this detailed article, we will explore the full meaning of planed all round, its preparation, benefits, applications, comparisons with other timber types, care tips, and key considerations before purchasing. We’ll also provide structured tables and FAQs for clarity.
What Does Planed All Round Mean?
The phrase “planed all round” refers to timber that has been machine planed on every surface—front, back, and sides—leaving a smooth and uniform finish.
- When timber is freshly cut from logs, it is rough, uneven, and filled with splinters. This is called rough-sawn timber.
- To make the timber easier to handle and suitable for visible projects, it is passed through a planer machine.
- If only one or two sides are planed, the timber is often called planed square edge (PSE).
- When all faces and edges are planed, it is planed all round (PAR).
This preparation ensures that the timber is not only safe to touch and work with but also provides accurate dimensions and an attractive finish suitable for visible construction or furniture.
Characteristics of Planed All Round Timber
- Smooth Surface: Free from splinters and rough textures, safe for direct use.
- Uniform Shape: Edges and corners are neat, often slightly rounded to prevent sharpness.
- Accurate Dimensions: Easier to measure and cut due to consistent size.
- Versatile Use: Can be used in furniture, joinery, decorative projects, and structural work.
- Variety of Woods: Available in softwoods (like pine, spruce) and hardwoods (like oak, beech).
How Planed All Round Timber Is Prepared
The preparation of PAR timber involves several steps:
- Log Selection
High-quality logs are chosen, often depending on whether softwood or hardwood is required. - Sawing
Logs are cut into rough boards, beams, or planks using industrial saws. At this stage, the timber is rough-sawn. - Drying
Timber is dried either by air or in kilns to reduce moisture content. This prevents warping and cracking later. - Planing
Boards are fed through a planer machine which removes rough surfaces. In PAR timber, this is done on all faces. - Final Finishing
Edges are sometimes eased (slightly rounded) for smoother handling and better aesthetics.
Benefits of Planed All Round Timber
Using PAR timber offers many advantages over rough-sawn or unfinished wood:
- Ease of Handling
Smooth surfaces mean less risk of splinters and safer use in projects. - Time-Saving
Since it is already planed, there is less preparation required before use. - Professional Finish
PAR timber provides an attractive look suitable for visible applications like furniture or shelves. - Versatility
Works well for both structural and decorative purposes. - Dimensional Accuracy
Cuts and joins are easier due to consistent thickness and width.
Common Applications of Planed All Round Timber
PAR timber is used across multiple industries and projects.
1. Furniture Making
- Chairs, tables, cabinets, and shelves benefit from smooth, finished timber.
- PAR wood requires minimal sanding before applying varnish, paint, or oil.
2. Interior Joinery
- Skirting boards, window frames, and door frames are often made from PAR timber.
- Smooth surfaces make them aesthetically pleasing indoors.
3. DIY Projects
- Popular among hobbyists for small-scale projects like bookshelves, storage boxes, or garden furniture.
4. Decorative Work
- Ideal for places where the wood will remain visible, such as feature walls or exposed beams.
5. Structural Uses (Lightweight)
- While not as strong as rough-sawn beams, PAR timber is used in lightweight structural framing.
Table: PAR vs. Other Timber Types
| Timber Type | Surface | Preparation Needed | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rough-Sawn | Rough, uneven | Needs sanding/planing | Heavy construction, hidden frameworks |
| PSE (Planed Square Edge) | One side planed | Some preparation | Simple joinery, internal projects |
| PAR (Planed All Round) | All sides smooth | Ready-to-use | Furniture, joinery, visible work |
Types of Wood Available as Planed All Round
Softwoods (Affordable and Lightweight)
- Pine
- Spruce
- Cedar
Hardwoods (Durable and Premium)
- Oak
- Beech
- Ash
- Walnut
Advantages of PAR Over Rough-Sawn
- Better Aesthetics: Looks polished and professional.
- Convenience: Cuts project time significantly.
- Safety: No rough edges or splinters.
- Uniformity: Makes assembly and alignment easier.
Limitations of Planed All Round Timber
While PAR has many advantages, there are some limitations to consider:
- Higher Cost
Because it is processed, PAR timber costs more than rough-sawn wood. - Reduced Strength
Planing reduces thickness slightly, which can affect load-bearing capacity compared to rough-sawn wood. - Moisture Sensitivity
If not sealed properly, smooth surfaces may absorb moisture unevenly, leading to swelling. - Not Always Suitable for Outdoor Heavy Construction
Rough-sawn wood is better for structural uses where appearance is not important.
Table: Advantages and Disadvantages of PAR Timber
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Smooth, safe surfaces | More expensive |
| Ready to use | Slightly reduced thickness |
| Professional appearance | Needs sealing for outdoor use |
| Consistent dimensions | Less suitable for heavy structural work |
Working with Planed All Round Timber
- Cutting
Easier to cut accurately due to smooth, uniform surfaces. - Joining
Works well with screws, nails, and adhesives. - Finishing
Minimal sanding required before applying finishes. - Care
- Store in dry conditions.
- Seal with varnish, oil, or paint for protection.
- Avoid direct outdoor exposure without treatment.
Cost of Planed All Round Timber
Prices depend on the type of wood, size, and supplier.
| Wood Type | Average Price (per meter) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Softwood (Pine) | Low cost | DIY, shelving |
| Hardwood (Oak) | Medium to high | Furniture, joinery |
| Premium Hardwoods (Walnut, Teak) | High | Decorative and luxury projects |
Sustainability of PAR Timber
Sustainability is a growing concern. Look for:
- FSC Certification: Ensures wood is sourced responsibly.
- Recycled Timber: Using reclaimed wood reduces waste.
- Eco-Friendly Finishes: Non-toxic oils and varnishes preserve wood sustainably.
Planed All Round in Modern Woodworking
In today’s market, PAR timber is valued for its balance of convenience and aesthetics. From home DIY enthusiasts to professional carpenters, it remains a preferred choice where both look and ease of handling matter.
Conclusion
Planed all round (PAR) timber is one of the most versatile materials available for woodworking. It combines the beauty of smooth, splinter-free surfaces with the practicality of accurate dimensions and ready-to-use preparation. While it cannot replace the structural strength of rough-sawn wood in heavy-duty construction, its advantages in furniture making, joinery, decorative projects, and DIY work make it an indispensable option in modern carpentry.
The key to making the most of PAR timber lies in understanding its strengths—convenience, safety, and aesthetics—while balancing its limitations like cost and thickness. With proper care, planed all round timber can serve as both a functional and artistic foundation for countless projects.
FAQs
1. What does planed all round (PAR) mean?
It means timber that has been machine-smoothened on all sides, leaving it ready to use with no rough edges.
2. How is PAR different from rough-sawn wood?
PAR is smooth and finished, while rough-sawn wood is uneven and requires additional preparation.
3. Can planed all round timber be used outdoors?
Yes, but it must be treated or sealed to withstand moisture and weather conditions.
4. Is PAR timber more expensive?
Yes, because it undergoes additional processing, but it saves time and labor in projects.
5. What are the best uses of PAR timber?
It is ideal for furniture, interior joinery, shelving, and decorative work where smoothness and aesthetics matter.
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