White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to perishable; vulnerable to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn face, typical of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a very wide, nearly white sapwood. The color is quite uniform and bright, with moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to perishable; vulnerable to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, likely less than a few months to a year old based on surface freshness.
- Sustainability Status
- Severely threatened in North America due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer; IUCN status is Critically Endangered.
Common Uses
Tool handles, baseball bats, furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and bending wood applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes well, though it can occasionally splinter with dull tools.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, and polyurethane exceptionally well without requiring special preparation.
Notable Features
Exceptional shock resistance, high elasticity, and heavy weight, making it the premier choice for tool handles and athletic equipment.
