White Pine
Pinus strobus • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. The sample shows a rough-sawn surface with prominent circular saw marks and some fuzzy grain fibers, typical of quick-growth softwoods.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light brown with a reddish-straw hue; sapwood is a pale yellow to nearly white. This sample is currently very light, suggesting it is fresh or has not been exposed to UV light, which typically darkens it to a golden tan over time.
Hardness Rating
380 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack if used in outdoor or damp conditions.
Common Uses
Utility lumber, crates, boxes, interior millwork, construction framing, carving, and inexpensive furniture.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.00 - $4.00 per board foot for common grades; higher for select clear grades.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/Modern; the lack of deep oxidation, the brightness of the fibers, and the fresh appearance of the circular saw kerfs suggest it is less than 5-10 years old.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed on CITES or the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It is easy to cut and plane, though its softness makes it prone to indentations and fuzzy surfaces if tools are not extremely sharp. Gluing and finishing are straightforward.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; very light weight; low resin content compared to Yellow Pine, which prevents excessive gumming of tools.
Finish Recommendations
Takes most finishes well including paint, lacquer, and polyurethane. A sanding sealer or pre-stain conditioner is recommended because of its tendency to absorb stain unevenly (blotching).
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the white/creamy color, soft fibrous texture, and the presence of small knots in the background pieces are characteristic of Eastern White Pine commonly found in retail lumber yards.