Southern Yellow Pine (or similar conifer utility wood)
Pinus spp. · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- North America
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately durable, prone to insect attack and rot if untreated and exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight, flat-sawn with visible growth ring lines typical of construction lumber
Color & Appearance
Light brownish-yellow to reddish-brown heartwood with lighter yellowish-white sapwood, low natural luster, darkens with oxidation and exposure
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable, prone to insect attack and rot if untreated and exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2 to $4 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years based on surface weathering, oxidation, and raw cut appearance
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant, widely planted and harvested, highly sustainable, FSC certified options readily available
Common Uses
Framing, construction, subflooring, general utility woodworking
Geographic Origin
North America
Workability
Easy to work with hand and machine tools, though gummy resin can occasionally gum up blades; accepts nails and screws well
Finish Recommendations
Accepts oil-based stains, primers, paints, and polyurethane well; thorough sanding may be needed to remove surface fuzz
Notable Features
High resin content, distinct resin scent, prominent contrast between earlywood and latewood rings
