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).
| Feature | Treated Timber | Untreated Timber |
| Durability | High | Medium to Low |
| Protection | Enhanced | Natural (limited) |
| Outdoor Use | Ideal | Not recommended |
| Cost | Higher upfront | Lower upfront |
| Sustainability | Varies (PEFC options available) | Varies |
| Workability | May require handling precautions | Easier to cut/shape |
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.
Singapore