planches

Planches is the plural form of planche, a term used in French to denote a broad, flat piece of sawn timber. In English-language woodwork and construction, the equivalent terms are boards or planks. Planches are among the most common timber products and are produced from a wide range of wood species, including softwoods such as pine and spruce, and hardwoods such as oak or maple.

Planches can be rough-sawn or dressed (planed) to a smooth finish. They are sold in various thicknesses, widths, and lengths, with exact sizes determined by regional standards and intended use. Common interior boards are often in the 12–38 mm thickness range and several tens to a few hundred millimeters wide, with lengths typically from 1.5 to 6 meters. Exterior or structural boards may be treated for moisture and insect resistance or finished with coatings to withstand weathering.

Production and processing involve logging, sawing into boards, drying (air drying or kiln drying) to reach target moisture content, surfacing, and grading. Drying reduces warping and improves stability, while grading reflects quality, straightness, and the absence of defects.

Uses span construction (framing, sheathing), flooring, wall and ceiling paneling, cabinetry, furniture components, decking, and fencing. Board feet or linear dimensions are common measures for selling timber, depending on the market.

Sustainability considerations emphasize responsibly sourced wood, with certifications such as FSC or PEFC guiding forest management. Selecting locally available species and certified products can reduce environmental impact.