Ash (stained/textured)
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Perishable/Non-durable; poor resistance to decay and insect attack if untreated.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Strongly cathedral and wavy patterns with prominent open-pore rings. The grain has been enhanced through heavy sanding or Shou Sugi Ban-style brushing (wire-brushing), creating a deep topographical texture.
Color & Appearance
Naturally light cream to pale brown, but this sample has been treated with a dark charcoal or black stain and wiped back to leave dark pigment in the deep grain while revealing a silvery-grey surface.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Perishable/Non-durable; poor resistance to decay and insect attack if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern (5-10 years post-harvest); appearance is due to contemporary finishing techniques rather than natural oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Critically Endangered (IUCN) due to the Emerald Ash Borer; availability is currently high due to salvage but long-term supply is threatened.
Common Uses
Furniture (especially mid-century modern), flooring, tool handles, baseball bats, and decorative cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; responds very well to steam bending and staining. The large pores can cause splintering if tools are dull.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a sealer to prevent further pigment migration; polyurethane or lacquer works well. The deep texture may require multiple coats if a smooth top-surface is desired.
Notable Features
Prominent ring-porous structure makes it ideal for 'cerused' or 'wire-brushed' finishes where contrast is desired. It has no characteristic odor.
