Likely elm, possibly American elm; ash or another ring-porous hardwood are alternatives. — Ulmus americana (tentative); species cannot be confirmed from this image alone.

Likely elm, possibly American elm; ash or another ring-porous hardwood are alternatives.

Ulmus americana (tentative); species cannot be confirmed from this image alone. · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
If American elm, native to eastern and central North America.
Hardness
About 830 lbf for American elm — Soft by the requested scale.
Durability
Slightly Durable; elm heartwood has limited decay resistance, especially outdoors or in ground contact.

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Grain Pattern

Broad, irregular grain with pronounced swirls and knots; likely flat-sawn, with no clear evidence of decorative figure. End grain is not visible, limiting identification.

Color & Appearance

Golden tan to light brown with darker streaks and knots; apparent surface weathering may have muted the original color. Sapwood/heartwood boundaries and luster are unclear.

Hardness (Janka)

About 830 lbf for American elm — Soft by the requested scale.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; elm heartwood has limited decay resistance, especially outdoors or in ground contact.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly $5–$12 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried elm; slab dimensions, drying, defects, and local market can change this substantially.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot reliably estimate age from the image; surface weathering alone does not establish the wood’s age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, veneer, turned pieces, and interior millwork.

Geographic Origin

If American elm, native to eastern and central North America.

Workability

Generally workable, though interlocked grain can tear during planing; predrilling helps with fasteners. The slab appears knotty and irregular, which may complicate machining.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively and use a sanding sealer or conditioner if a more even color is desired; oil or clear varnish can emphasize the grain.

Notable Features

Elm commonly has interlocked grain and a characteristic irregular, sometimes wavy appearance; knots and dark inclusions are visible here.

Learn more about Likely elm, possibly American elm; ash or another ring-porous hardwood are alternatives. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 25, 2026