unplaned

Unplaned is an adjective used in woodworking and lumber to describe surfaces that have not been smoothed by a plane. It typically refers to boards or timbers retained in a rough condition after sawing, exhibiting tool marks, fiber gaps, and irregular edges. Unplaned lumber is often called rough-sawn and contrasts with planed or surfaced lumber, which has been milled to a uniform, smooth finish on one or more sides.

In practice, unplaned surfaces may be left intentionally for rustic aesthetics, or may be intended for later finishing by the user. For structural uses rough surfaces can provide adhesion for glues and specialized coatings, but finishing requires sanding or planing to achieve a smooth surface.

Handling and properties: Rough surfaces absorb moisture more readily and can shrink, warp, or cup as they dry. They retain more grain texture and may be more prone to splinters or rough edges. They often require more preparation prior to finishing, such as planing or sanding, when a smooth surface is needed.

Industry usage: In many markets, unplaned boards are sold as rough lumber for framing, pallets, or exterior siding. When a smooth finish is required, buyers may specify planed all around (PAR) or surfaced four sides (S4S), which denotes that the wood has been milled on at least two or more faces.

Etymology: The term derives from planing, the process of shaving wood to a thinner, smoother surface.