Pressure-Treated Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. (likely P. palustris or P. taeda) • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with distinct, prominent latewood bands. Flat-sawn with characteristic raised grain due to weathering.
Color Description
Originally yellowish-white to reddish-brown; currently weathered to a silvery-grey with dark fungal staining and remnants of greenish-brown pressure-treatment oxides.
Hardness Rating
690 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)
Durability Rating
Very Durable (due to chemical treatment); naturally only slightly durable. Highly resistant to rot and termites via copper-based preservatives.
Common Uses
Outdoor decking, fencing, landscaping timbers, utility poles, and marine construction.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$1.50 - $2.50 per board foot (standard dimensional lumber)
Wood Age Estimate
10-15 years based on deep surface checking, significant oxidation (grey patina), and visible edge erosion/decay.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; primarily sourced from fast-growing plantations in the US South; FSC and SFI certified options widely available.
Workability
Easy to cut and fasten. Challenges include high resin content that clogs sandpaper and the tendency to split when nailed near ends without pre-drilling.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; contains chemical preservatives (ACQ or MCA) which require specialized fasteners to prevent corrosion; may cause skin irritation from dust.
Finish Recommendations
Solid or semi-transparent oil-based deck stain after thorough cleaning and brightening. High-solids stains are preferred for older, checked wood.
Identification Confidence
High; the wide, dark latewood growth rings combined with the specific 'reeded' grooved profile and weathering characteristics are diagnostic of Southern Yellow Pine decking.