Pressure-Treated Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. (likely P. palustris, P. echinata, P. taeda, or P. elliottii) • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with prominent, wide latewood bands visible on the end grain. Shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern on the face grain.
Color Description
Originally yellowish-white with a greenish tint from copper-based preservatives (CCA or MCA); however, this sample has aged to a weathered brownish-grey with significant silvering from UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
690 lbf (Soft to Medium - varies significantly between earlywood and latewood)
Durability Rating
Very Durable (treated). The chemical infusion provides high resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termites, though the wood is prone to checking/splitting if left unsealed.
Common Uses
Outdoor construction, decking, fencing, landscape timbers, sill plates, and docks.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
0.80 - 1.50 USD per board foot depending on treatment grade and regional lumber prices.
Wood Age Estimate
3 to 7 years post-milling, based on the depth of grey weathering and the degree of surface checking/splintering on the end grain.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; widely available from FSC-certified plantations and fast-growing managed forests across the US South.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues and finishes well once dry, though high resin content and moisture from treatment can gum up blades.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; contains chemical preservatives that require the use of a dust mask when sanding. High density for a softwood.
Finish Recommendations
Solid or semi-transparent oil-based deck stain after thorough cleaning and drying. Penetrating sealers are preferred over film-forming finishes like polyurethane which will peel.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible growth ring structure characteristic of Southern Yellow Pine, combined with the rough-sawn texture and typical weathered appearance of pressure-treated lumber, is diagnostic.