Eastern White Pine
Pinus strobus • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and even with a medium to fine texture; features cathedral grain patterns and visible resinous knots.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light brown to pale reddish-brown, while sapwood is a yellowish-white. The wood tends to darken and yellow significantly with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
380 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; low resistance to rot and decay; susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Construction lumber, crates, boxes, interior millwork, carving, boat building (masts), and furniture.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled (under 1 year) based on the light color, lack of oxidation, and sharp, unweathered edges.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from sustainably managed forests; not listed on CITES appendices.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues and finishes well; however, can be prone to indentations due to its softness.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when worked; very lightweight; low shrinkage and stable once dried; potential for resin/pitch pockets.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based stains, lacquer, and polyurethane; a wood conditioner is recommended before staining to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; identified by the characteristic light color, tight small knots, and the specific transition between earlywood and latewood typical of Pinus strobus.