2x2 Timber Treated

(4 Products)

2x2 timber – or 50mmx50mm in metric size – is one of the cornerstones of the building trade. This non-structural timber has been sawn to the required length and pressure treated with substances to attempt to prevent fungal or insect attack. Here at Materials Market, we supply 2x2 timber that comes in 3m and 3.6m lengths which can be cut or sawn to whichever length is required for the individual project.

Find Out More About Our Types of 2x2
Filter Products

What Is 2x2 Timber Used For?

2x2 timber is an incredibly versatile structural building material that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, thanks to the sealing and treating of the timber. 

50x50 treated timber can be used in all manner of different ways including in both flooring and roofing; its uses are as varied as the imagination of the architects and builders using it in their projects. 

A few examples of how 2x2 treated timber can be used are: 

  • In roof and flooring joists
  • As part of a building structure's timber frame
  • Outdoor decking (due to its durability and moisture resistance)
  • Outdoor frames and pergolas 
  • Fencing
  • Garden sheds and garden furniture


Check all component dimensions and any other details are correct prior to any work on site.

2x2 Timber Key Features 

  • Dimensions: Specifically cut to a 2-inch height and 2-inch width, which is approximately 47mm x 50mm.
  • Standard Reference: Commonly referred to as 2x2 or 50mmx50mm due to the negligible 3mm difference.
  • Available Lengths: Sold in both 3m and 3.6m lengths.
  • Consistent Dimensions: Timber is regularised for consistent sizing within its range.
  • Treatment: Timber is treated with preservatives to enhance durability.
  • Kiln Dried: Processed to reduce moisture content, enhancing its strength and longevity.
  • Planed All Around: Ensures a smooth finish by removing imperfections and making it user-friendly with eased edges.
  • Versatility: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
  • Aesthetic Use: Planing ensures the timber is suitable for aesthetic purposes within buildings or furniture.
  • Multiple Applications: Can be used for flooring, roofing, building structures, outdoor decking, frames, pergolas, fencing, garden sheds, and garden furniture.
  • Durability and Moisture Resistance: Treated timber ensures long-lasting use especially outdoors.


2x2 Timber Sizing Explained

2x2 timber is timber that has been cut specifically to a 2-inch height and 2-inch width. In mm this comes in at 47mm x 50mm.

Although one side is 47mm and the other is 50mm, most people refer to this profile as 2x2 or 50mmx50mm, because the 3mm difference between 47mm and 50mm is negligible.

This profile is then sold in 3m and 3.6m lengths for use in a wide range of building applications.

Timber comes in various lengths and sizes, and is regularised to ensure that dimensions are consistent within ranges.

Frequently Asked 2x2 Questions

Is It Possible To Paint Timber 2x2

It is entirely possible to paint treated timber but it does come with its own complications due to the treatment process and the chemicals that are normally involved in this. One of the most important things to remember is that it isn’t a good idea to paint it too soon after you have bought it.

This sounds counter-intuitive but it is actually because when shipped, most treated timber is still “wet” and needs time for the water borne chemicals to settle and to dry. You will notice that the wood is heavy and feels damp to the touch at this point.

If primer or paint is added to it at this point, it will most likely be rejected by the water based chemicals that are still present in the wood. It is important to allow the wood to dry out fully before attempting to add any paint or primer to it. This can take up to a few weeks depending on where the wood is being stored.

Please note that too much heat and direct sunlight can cause the timber to warp rather than dry out and damp conditions can prolong the drying out period. 

What Is 2x2 Timber Regularising? 

Here at Materials Market, all our timber (including our 2x2 wood) is treated with preservatives, kiln dried, and then planed all round to give it eased edges that make it easier to handle (regularised). 

Planing is a process in which the timber is sanded down to achieve a smooth finish, banishing imperfections and making it suitable for aesthetic use within a building or furniture building. 


Is It Easy To Cut 50x50 Timber 2x2 To My Preferred Size?

It is relatively easy to cut treated timber to the size that you need in your project, though this should only be attempted with the appropriate power tools, eye protection and a respirator as there will be tiny airborne particles of wood, possibly impregnated with the chemicals used in the pressure-treating process.

It cuts similarly to wet wood so care must be taken to ensure the blade doesn’t slip while cutting.

Although it is a little more difficult than cutting sawn timber, it is not massively more difficult to cut 2 x 2 treated timber into the sizes that are needed for your project. 

As long as care is taken, it can be accomplished relatively easily. This material is considered versatile for a reason and if it was very difficult, it wouldn’t be used in so many different applications and projects.


How Much Does 2x2 Treated Timber Cost?

Treated timber is a very common and therefore relatively inexpensive building material. We offer cheap 2 x 2 timber through our online site. If you wish to purchase a very large bulk quantity, please reach out to our customer service team who will be happy to give you a bespoke quotation.


Is 2x2 Timber Environmentally Sustainable?

All of our timber is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) certified, which means that it is responsibly sourced and environmentally friendly.

Related Articles

How to Build a Timber Frame Extension

Timber Frame Construction

Timber Sizing

C16 vs C24 – What’s The Difference?

Best Types of Building Wood For Construction

Call now 020 7459 4574

All Categories

Services