Treated vs. Untreated Timber: Which Is Right for Your Project?

When sourcing sawn timber in Malaysia, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to use treated or untreated timber. Both have their place — but choosing the right type depends on your project, environment, and long-term durability needs.

In this guide, we’ll explain the key differences, benefits, and treatment options available, so you can make an informed and cost-effective decision.

2. What Is Treated Timber?

Treated timber has been processed to protect it from:

• Termites and insects

• Fungal decay and rot

• Weather and moisture damage

This is especially important for outdoor structures, roofing, or export projects. In Malaysia, there are several treatment methods available — each suited for different uses.

• Purpose: Prevents warping, cracking, and shrinkage.

• Best for: Furniture, construction, and export-quality timber.

• Available at Kilang Papan PGP

Chemical preservative forced deep into the wood under pressure.

• Purpose: Strong protection against termites, rot, and weather.

• Best for: Decking, fencing, beams, and exposed structures.

• Note: Contains arsenic; some countries restrict its use in residential settings.

• Available at Kilang Papan PGP

A modern, eco-friendly alternative to CCA.

• Purpose: Similar protection without heavy metals.

• Best for: Export to countries that ban CCA (e.g., US, EU).

• Eco Benefit: Arsenic-free and safer for residential use.

• Note: Less common in Malaysia, but growing in demand.

A water-based treatment for termite and insect resistance.

• Purpose: Non-toxic and safe indoors.

• Best for: Furniture, framing, plywood.

• Limitation: Not suitable for outdoor or wet conditions.

Timber is dried naturally in covered sheds over weeks or months.

• Benefit: Low cost and energy use.

• Limitation: Slower, less precise than kiln drying.

High-temperature treatment with no chemicals.

• Purpose: Enhances durability, insect resistance, and stability.

• Best for: Sustainable, chemical-free projects.

• Limitation: Requires special equipment — not widely used in Malaysia yet.

Untreated timber has not been exposed to any preservation or drying process. It is:

• More affordable

• Easier to handle or cut

• Ideal for dry, indoor environments

However, it is less durable outdoors and may be vulnerable to insects, moisture, and rot — unless naturally resistant (e.g., Chengal, Merbau, Balau).

Some species respond particularly well to treatment and are commonly used in outdoor or structural applications:

• Kapur

• Dark Red Meranti

• Kempas

• Keruing

• Balau

• Kasai

These are ideal for decking, roof trusses, marine use, and export.

Choose treated timber for:

• Outdoor furniture or decks

• Pergolas, fencing, or roofing

• Termite-prone environments

• Long-lasting construction

• Export compliance (check destination requirements)

Use untreated timber for:

• Indoor furniture or cabinetry

• Dry, low-risk environments

• Short-term or cost-sensitive projects

• Naturally durable hardwoods (e.g., Chengal, Merbau)

• Ask about PEFC certification for sustainability

• Confirm treatment type for your end use or export country

• Choose a reliable supplier that offers custom sizes and fast delivery

• Partner with a sawmill that understands bulk orders and project needs

At Kilang Papan PGP, we supply a wide range of Malaysian hardwood species — available in:

• Custom sizes

• Kiln-dried and CCA-treated options

• PEFC-certified for sustainability

• Fast local and international delivery

Contact us now to request a quote or speak to our timber experts.