Every project begins with a choice. Sometimes it’s small: screws or nails? Other times, it’s the foundation itself. Timber or engineered wood? For builders, renovators, and weekend tinkerers across South Africa, that decision sets the tone for everything that follows. One is nature’s original building block, the other a smart remix made for modern needs. Both have strengths. Both have quirks. The real question is: which one belongs in your hands?

At BUCO, we’re here to cut through the noise with practical know-how, a wide range of options, and expert advice you can lean on.

Timber is building in its purest form. Straight from the tree, sawn into planks or beams, and ready to shape into something lasting. Pine is the everyday hero in South Africa, affordable and easy to work with. Hardwoods like oak and saligna? Those are the heavy-hitters — strong, durable, and beautiful in ways only natural wood can be.

Timber has a few undeniable perks: it lasts, it can be repaired or refinished, and it carries that natural warmth no man-made product can truly imitate. Whether it’s a roof truss, a deck, or a dining table, timber brings character along with muscle. Browse the range in our Boards & Timber Department to see what works for your project.

Engineered wood is timber with a twist. Instead of cutting planks straight from the log, it’s made by pressing wood fibres, veneers, or chips into sheets. Think plywood, MDF, chipboard, and laminated boards.

It’s clever stuff. By reworking the raw material, engineered wood stays stable where solid timber might warp, and it stretches the budget further too. It’s easy to cut, easy to work with, and easy to replace if you make a mistake (we’ve all been there).

The trade-off? It doesn’t always have the long-term strength of solid timber, and moisture is not its friend. But for cabinetry, shelving, or decorative finishes, it often ticks every box.

Engineered wood brings plenty of advantages to the table, but it also has its drawbacks. Here’s a balanced look:

Pros

• Cost-effective compared to solid timber.
• Stable and less likely to warp or shrink.
• Wide variety of finishes for different looks.
• Easy to work with for DIY and professional projects.

Cons

• Can’t be sanded and refinished multiple times.
• Shorter lifespan in high-traffic or heavy-use areas.
• Vulnerable to moisture if not properly sealed.

Engineered wood works brilliantly for indoor furniture, cupboards, and decorative finishes where style and affordability matter. For outdoor projects or long-term durability, solid timber may still be the better option.

Here’s how they stack up when you’re weighing one against the other:

• Strength: Timber wins when it comes to heavy lifting. Engineered wood is best for decorative or light-use jobs.
• Cost: Engineered wood usually costs less, which means more material for your money.
• Sustainability: Both can be eco-friendly. Solid timber should be certified, while engineered wood squeezes maximum use out of each tree.
• Applications: Timber for structures, decks, and long-life furniture. Engineered wood for interiors, shelving, and design touches.

Still not sure? Dip into BUCO’s Expert Advice and Tips for deeper guidance.

So, is engineered wood better than timber? Sometimes. Is timber better than engineered wood? Also, sometimes.

Building a deck? Go with solid timber. Putting up cabinets or shelving? Engineered wood will save you money and hassle. Flooring? That’s a toss-up depending on your budget and expectations. The “better” choice isn’t universal. It’s about matching the right material to the job at hand.

Whether you’ve decided on timber or engineered boards, BUCO has the goods. From pine planks to chipboard sheets, we’ve got the variety to suit every project and pocket. You can shop online for convenience or head into your nearest BUCO store to see the range up close and chat to our experts.

Timber brings strength and soul. Engineered wood delivers practicality and price. Both earn their place in South African projects, the trick is knowing when to use which.

Shop timber, wooden boards, and engineered boards at BUCO today, and build with confidence.