Medium-High; identified by characteristic coarse ring-porous grain structure, warm tan color, pale sapwood contrast, live-edge presence, and telltale insect pinholes typical of reclaimed American wormy chestnut timber. confidence

Wormy Chestnut (American Chestnut)

Castanea dentata · Hardwood / Reclaimed

Type: Hardwood / Reclaimed
Origin: Eastern North America (Appalachian region)
Hardness: 540 lbf (Soft)
Durability: Very Durable; heartwood possesses high natural decay and rot resistance, though vulnerable to insect/powder post beetle holes (hence 'wormy').

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Grain Pattern

Straight, coarse grain texture with prominent growth rings and distinct circular saw mark patterns on this rough-sawn board face.

Color & Appearance

Light to medium brownish-pink to tan heartwood with narrow pale sapwood; shows typical weathered patina and age-darkened character.

Hardness (Janka)

540 lbf (Soft)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable; heartwood possesses high natural decay and rot resistance, though vulnerable to insect/powder post beetle holes (hence 'wormy').

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value: $12.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on width, condition, and bug hole density.
Wood Age Estimate: Estimated 80-120+ years old; harvested prior to or during the early 20th-century chestnut blight, or salvaged from antique structures.
Sustainability Status: Critically Endangered in the wild due to Cryphonectria parasitica (chestnut blight); commercially available almost exclusively as reclaimed timber.

Common Uses

Reclaimed rustic furniture, wall paneling, cabinetry, timber frame accents, decorative millwork, picture frames.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America (Appalachian region)

Workability

Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues, nails, and screws well, though bug holes require care to avoid tearout during surfacing.

Finish Recommendations

Penetrating oil finishes, clear coat polyurethanes, or wax to preserve the weathered character and highlight the distinctive worm hole features after light sanding.