White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable (perishable in ground contact and susceptible to powderpost beetles)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, even texture and ring-porous structure.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a wide, distinct lighter sapwood ranging from near white to yellowish-white. Moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable (perishable in ground contact and susceptible to powderpost beetles)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.50 to $4.50 per board foot (standard lumber grades)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly harvested log, estimated tree age around 40 to 60 years based on ring count visibility and diameter.
- Sustainability Status
- Severely threatened across North America due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), resulting in a high availability of salvage logs but strict quarantine transport laws.
Common Uses
Tool handles, baseball bats, furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally blunt cutting edges.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oils, lacquers, varnishes, and stains uniformly without requiring extensive grain filling.
Notable Features
Exceptional shock resistance, bending strength, and elasticity, which historically made it the premier choice for tool handles and athletic equipment.
