Southern Yellow Pine (likely Longleaf or Shortleaf Pine)
Pinus palustris (Longleaf) or Pinus echinata (Shortleaf) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 - 870 lbf (Soft to Medium, depending on specific species and density)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; the resinous heartwood offers decent resistance to decay and insects, though sapwood is susceptible to rot.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent, wide growth rings; exhibits a distinct wavy, cathedral-like figure with sharp transitions between earlywood and latewood
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a warm reddish-brown to orange-yellow; sapwood is yellowish-white. It typically darkens and reddens significantly with age and light exposure, developing a rich patina.
Hardness (Janka)
690 - 870 lbf (Soft to Medium, depending on specific species and density)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; the resinous heartwood offers decent resistance to decay and insects, though sapwood is susceptible to rot.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Approximately $1.50 - $3.00 per board foot for standard dimensional lumber; higher for Select or Heart Pine grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent/modern stock (less than 10 years), likely kiln-dried dimensional lumber based on the surface texture and lack of deep oxidation or graying.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally sustainable and widely available; some species like Longleaf are under restoration efforts but not currently CITES listed.
Common Uses
Residential construction, heavy timber framing, flooring, decking, plywood, and furniture (especially rustic or country styles).
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Resinous nature can cause gumming of sandpaper and saw blades. It holds screws and nails well but may require pre-drilling near ends to prevent splitting.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oils; however, a wood conditioner or sealer is recommended before staining to prevent blotchiness due to uneven resin distribution.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high resin content (pitch) makes it flammable and water-resistant; very pronounced contrast in hardness between earlywood (soft) and latewood (hard).
