Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) or similar Softwood Pine
Pinus strobus · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
- Hardness
- 380 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable. Low resistance to rot and insect attack unless treated or kept dry indoors.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with distinct earlywood/latewood growth rings, displaying a flat-sawn cathedral/wavy pattern surrounding a tight, solid dark knot.
Color & Appearance
Pale yellowish-tan to light reddish-brown hue with a warm aged amber tone/patina. Luster is low to moderate.
Hardness (Janka)
380 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable. Low resistance to rot and insect attack unless treated or kept dry indoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 - $4.00 per board foot for common pine dimensional lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated age as processed lumber: 10 to 30 years based on surface oxidation, ambering finish/patina, and surface indentation marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Highly sustainable, widely abundant, and readily available FSC-certified.
Common Uses
Construction lumber, framing, rustic furniture, millwork, interior trim, paneling, and general DIY woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Workability
Very easy to cut, plane, sand, glue, and nail. Extremely soft, so it dents easily; soft springwood can tear out if cutting tools are dull.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts polyurethane, lacquer, shellac, and oil-based finishes well. Requires a pre-stain wood conditioner before staining to prevent blotchiness.
Notable Features
Distinct faint resinous/pine scent when freshly cut. Lightweight, low density, and easily damaged by fingernails or light impacts.
