Speaking Our Language – A Guide to Common Timber Terminology

In the world of architectural specification, clarity is key. When it comes to timber, understanding the correct terminology ensures the intent of a design is carried through from concept to construction. Whether you’re briefing a builder, requesting a sample, or selecting finishes for a high-end façade, speaking the right language helps ensure your project gets the right product.

At Modinex, we believe in empowering our clients and collaborators with the language they need to specify with confidence. Below, we’ve broken down some of the core terms you’ll encounter when specifying timber products, from species and textures to coatings and finishes.

Charlton House | Species: Western Red Cedar (softwood)

Timber Species: Softwoods vs Hardwoods

The first consideration when specifying timber is the species. This choice affects not only the visual appearance, but also durability, density, workability, and price point. Explore our full range of timber cladding to compare species characteristics for both residential and commercial applications.

 

Hardwoods


Hardwoods are sourced from broad-leafed trees and are typically denser, more durable, and structurally robust. Known for their longevity and natural character, they’re a popular choice for high-performance architectural applications. Species such as Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, and Ironbark are prized for their strength, rich grain patterns, and ability to withstand harsh Australian conditions.

Softwoods

Softwoods, typically sourced from coniferous species like pine, cedar, and fir, are lighter in colour and generally more workable than hardwoods. While softer by nature, species such as Western Red Cedar and Hemlock are highly regarded for their stability, straight grain, and suitability for external applications when properly treated. Accoya, a modified softwood, offers exceptional durability and dimensional stability, making it ideal for premium, long-lasting architectural use.

At Modinex, we offer a comprehensive range of timber species to suit a wide variety of architectural styles, performance requirements, and project settings. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of timber behaviour, treatment, and aesthetics, our team is here to help you specify with confidence. Whether you’re seeking durability, distinct grain character, or a particular finish, we’re ready to guide you toward the right solution for your vision.

Up close: Timber finishes

Timber Finishes: Texture, Character, and Surface Detail

Timber finish plays a significant role in defining the aesthetic and tactile quality of a project. The finish you choose will influence the way the timber interacts with light, how it weathers over time, and the level of maintenance required.

Band-Sawn

A rough-cut surface showing visible saw marks. This adds rustic character and helps coatings bind effectively.

Dressed All Round (DAR)

Smooth on all sides. This is a sleek, contemporary finish often seen in premium interior or refined exterior applications.

Wire Brushed

A light surface treatment that removes soft fibres and enhances grain definition. Often paired with a transparent stain or oil to emphasise natural texture.

Two Tone

A visual treatment where sections of the board carry contrasting tones. This adds visual depth and movement, often used to create a bespoke, high-end look.

Charred

Inspired by traditional Japanese ‘Shou Sugi Ban’, this technique carbonises the surface for enhanced durability and a striking, deep black appearance.

Dressed

A smooth finish achieved by planing the surface. Sometimes confused with DAR, though not always dressed on all four sides.

Circular Sawn

A more irregular, authentic sawn finish with curved saw marks, offering a distinctly rustic or industrial edge.

Each of these finishes can transform the same species of timber into something entirely different—texturally, visually, and in performance.

Modern Thai Residence | Coating: Clear UV Satin

Coatings: Preserving Beauty and Enhancing Performance

The final step in timber specification is selecting the right coating system. This decision significantly impacts the timber’s appearance, longevity, colour stability, and maintenance requirements over time.

Penetrating Oil Coatings

These oils soak into the timber, enhancing the natural grain and delivering a warm, low-sheen finish. While they may require more frequent upkeep, reapplication is straightforward. Oils support the health of the timber and help slow down weathering.

UV-Cured Coatings

Cured using ultraviolet light, these coatings create a hard-wearing, highly durable finish. They are best suited to interior applications or protected areas where long-term surface performance is essential.

Acid-Catalysed Coatings

A tough, fast-drying solution with excellent chemical and abrasion resistance. Often used in joinery, cabinetry, and commercial settings where a robust finish is required.

We offer a range of coating options tailored to different environments and design outcomes. If you’re unsure which is right for your project, the best next step is to speak with our team—we’re here to help you specify with confidence.

Getting It Right

Specifying timber is about more than selecting a species and a colour. It’s about understanding how each element contributes to the overall design narrative. Explore our exterior cladding systems to see how species, finishes and coatings come together in architectural applications. At Modinex, we’re here to support you through that process, offering expert advice and curated options to suit every project.

If you’d like help finding the right language to specify for your next project, get in touch with our team. We speak timber, fluently.

Article By   Joel Leitch

| 11 April 2025

Joel Leitch

Project Consultant

Joel is an integral team member of NSW projects division with over a decade as a consultant to architects and builders. With extensive experience as a head of projects, Joel Leitch combines deep knowledge of natural timber, aluminium, and concrete to provide innovative and inspiring design solutions.