Every build starts with a line, a cut, a choice. The right timber makes all the difference. PAR timber, planed all round, is the timber you reach for when you want clean edges, straight surfaces, and a finish that feels effortless. It’s versatile enough for furniture, trim, and floor joists, and predictable enough to take the guesswork out of your project.

PAR timber, short for Planed All Round, is wood that has been planed on every side to give a smooth, consistent finish. No rough patches, no surprises, just timber that’s ready to be measured, cut, and installed. It’s the unsung hero of countless builds, perfect for floor framing, shelving, furniture, trim work, and even outdoor projects if treated correctly.

The beauty of PAR timber is in its consistency. Every piece is uniform in size and texture, which makes joins tighter, finishes cleaner, and your build overall more precise. For homeowners and professional builders alike, it reduces prep time and helps avoid issues like uneven surfaces or warped boards. Explore the PAR timber range at BUCO to see the different sizes and wood types available for your project.

Before you start sawing away, knowing your timber sizes keeps the project moving smoothly and prevents unnecessary trips to the store. In South Africa, PAR timber typically comes in lengths from 2.4 to 6 meters, with widths and thicknesses tailored to different tasks. Common dimensions include 38x38mm, 50x50mm, and 100x50mm, but these vary depending on structural requirements and the type of wood.

Planning your cuts efficiently minimizes waste and ensures you purchase the right amount of material. For example, longer boards are ideal for spanning larger distances, while narrower or thinner boards are better for trim, shelving, or furniture details. Tools like BUCO’s online calculators make it simple to figure out exactly how much timber you’ll need for your build.

Think of structural timber as the muscle and PAR timber as the polish. Structural timber carries the weight, providing the strength and rigidity that keeps your walls, floors, and roofs standing tall. PAR timber, on the other hand, smooths edges, aligns joins, and gives your project a clean, professional finish.

Using both together is the smart way to build. Structural timber forms the framework and ensures safety and compliance with building codes, while PAR timber makes sure every visible surface is neat, easy to work with, and aesthetically pleasing. By combining them, you get projects that are both sturdy and sharp.

Floor joists are more than planks; they are the backbone of every step you take. In South Africa, the minimum height and spacing for timber floor joists depend on the span, the type of load they will carry, and the wood species. Generally, larger spans and heavier loads require deeper joists, while shorter spans can work with shallower boards.

Proper planning ensures your floors are level, stable, and long-lasting. Mistakes in joist sizing or placement can lead to sagging, squeaks, or even structural failure over time. By following South African building standards and using the right combination of structural and PAR timber, you create floors that are both safe and durable.

BUCO makes shopping simple. Standard sizes, expert guidance, and advice from staff who know timber inside and out means you get exactly what your project needs. Find your nearest BUCO store and build with confidence.

Right-sized timber is more than measurements; it’s the difference between a good build and one that feels effortless. PAR timber offers precision, reliability, and a smooth finish that keeps projects moving. Shop PAR timber at BUCO and make your next project a smart, satisfying build.