The Different Grades of Timber and Their Uses

Not all timber is created equal. Just like coffee beans or diamonds, timber comes in different grades — and knowing the difference can make or break your next project. Whether you’re building a home, crafting furniture, or designing something special, understanding timber grades will help you choose the right wood for the job.

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What Are Timber Grades?

A timber grade is basically a quality rating. It tells you how strong the wood is, how it looks, and what it’s best used for. Grades take into account:

• Strength (can it handle heavy loads?)

• Appearance (does it look flawless or rustic?)

• Defects (knots, splits, or warps)

1. Structural Grade (SG)

The Muscle of the Timber World 

Structural-grade timber is all about strength. It’s used where safety and stability matter most — think beams, floor joists, and frames.

• Common Uses: House framing, roof trusses, load-bearing supports

• Fun Fact: In Australia and Malaysia, you might see terms like SG1, SG2, SG3 — the lower the number, the stronger the wood.

2. Appearance Grade

The Supermodel Timber 

Appearance grade is chosen for how it looks, not just how strong it is. It’s free from big knots and blemishes, with smooth surfaces that look great on display.

• Common Uses: Furniture, wall paneling, cabinetry, decorative finishes

• Fun Fact: This is the wood you’ll want if you’re going for a Pinterest-worthy interior.

 3. Industrial Grade

The Workhorse Timber 

Industrial-grade timber isn’t winning beauty contests — but it’s tough, affordable, and gets the job done for heavy-duty, non-decorative work.

• Common Uses: Pallets, packaging crates, temporary construction work

• Fun Fact: Perfect for when you need function over fashion.

4. Select Grade

The Best of Both Worlds 

Select grade timber offers both strength and beauty. It’s often chosen for high-end applications where the wood is both functional and visible.

• Common Uses: Staircases, exposed beams, premium furniture

• Fun Fact: This grade is like the VIP section of timber — limited defects, top performance, and stunning looks.

 Choosing the Right Grade

When picking timber, think about:

• Load requirements (Is it carrying weight?)

• Visibility (Will people see it?)

• Budget (Do you need premium looks or just solid performance?)

The right timber grade can make your project stronger, safer, and more beautiful. From structural workhorses to decorative showpieces, there’s a grade for every job.

At PGP, we supply a full range of timber grades — sustainably sourced, precision-cut, and ready for whatever you’re building next.