White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a prominent, open-pore cathedral pattern characteristic of ring-porous woods. The texture is fairly uniform and the grain is generally bold.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, while sapwood is a creamy beige to light brown. The transition is usually gradual. It possesses a moderate luster and tends to amber or yellow slightly as it ages.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Perishable to Slightly Durable. Poor resistance to heartwood decay and susceptible to attack by powder post beetles and common furniture beetles.
Common Uses
Flooring, tool handles (especially hammers and axes), baseball bats, cabinetry, furniture, oars, and turnings.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/contemporary (Under 10 years) based on the lack of deep oxidation, lack of surface patina, and the cleanliness of the planed surface.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN due to the Emerald Ash Borer; not currently CITES listed but availability is becoming more restricted.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a smooth finish.
Notable Features
Excellent shock resistance and elasticity. It has no characteristic odor and is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; oil-based finishes enhance the grain but require a grain filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The ring-porous structure, color palette, and specific grain spacing are hallmarks of Ash, distinguished from Oak by the absence of visible medullary rays on the face grain.