Pressure-Treated Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. (most commonly Pinus echinata, Pinus elliottii, Pinus palustris, or Pinus taeda) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States.
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable naturally; however, when pressure-treated, it is rated as Durable to Very Durable against rot and termites in ground contact or exterior use.
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Grain Pattern
Closed-grain with prominent, wide, flat-sawn cathedral patterns; visible growth rings with distinct latewood and earlywood contrast. Occasional small knots visible.
Color & Appearance
Originally light tan to yellowish with a greenish tint from preservative (CCA or ACQ); currently showing heavy graying/silvering from UV exposure, with residual brown solid-color stain peeling.
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable naturally; however, when pressure-treated, it is rated as Durable to Very Durable against rot and termites in ground contact or exterior use.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $1.00 - $1.50 per board foot (standard dimensional lumber pricing).
- Wood Age Estimate
- 15 to 25 years based on significant peeling of multiple layers of stain, deep surface checking (cracks), and heavy silvering of exposed fibers.
- Sustainability Status
- Extremely sustainable; widely plantation-grown in the US South; FSC and SFI certified sources are common.
Common Uses
Decks, boardwalks, fence posts, framing, utility poles, and exterior residential construction.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and power tools; glues and finishes well once dry; susceptible to splinters and tearout around knots. High resin content can gum up saw blades.
Finish Recommendations
Deep cleaning and sanding required; followed by a high-quality oil-based penetrating semi-transparent stain to handle the existing graying and weathering.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high density for a softwood; modern treatments use copper-based preservatives which can cause corrosion in standard steel fasteners.
