Spruce (most likely White Spruce or Sitka Spruce)
Picea spp. (e.g., Picea glauca) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Northern temperate and boreal regions (North America, Europe, and Asia).
- Hardness
- 480–510 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable; low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, fine-textured grain with narrow, regular growth rings; exhibits a classic flat-sawn appearance with occasional tight knots and resin streaks.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a creamy white to light yellowish-brown; sapwood is not clearly demarcated from heartwood. The wood shows low luster and tends to darken toward a faint amber hue with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
480–510 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $1.50 - $3.00 per board foot (construction grade).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, likely 1–5 years old based on the light oxidation and fresh saw marks visible on the surface.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable; wide FSC availability; not listed on CITES or the IUCN Red List of threatened species.
Common Uses
General construction lumber, framing, pallets, crates, millwork, and soundboards for musical instruments (guitars and violins).
Geographic Origin
Northern temperate and boreal regions (North America, Europe, and Asia).
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues and finishes well, though it can be prone to splintering and requires sharp blades to avoid fuzzy surfaces.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint and clear film-forming finishes (polyurethane) well; requires a wood conditioner if staining to avoid blotchiness.
Notable Features
Often has a faint, resinous scent; known for a high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent acoustic properties.
