SPF (Spruce-Pine-Fir mix), likely White Spruce or Lodgepole Pine

Picea glauca / Pinus contortaSoftwood

SPF (Spruce-Pine-Fir mix), likely White Spruce or Lodgepole Pine

Grain Pattern

Straight, fine-textured grain with a flat-sawn orientation; visible growth rings indicate moderate growth speed; presence of a small sound knot on the left edge.

Color Description

Pale yellowish-white to light light brown heartwood with little to no distinction from sapwood. Low luster; typically yellows or darkens to a golden tan over time with UV exposure.

Hardness Rating

420 - 510 lbf (Very Soft to Soft)

Durability Rating

Non-durable; low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated or in contact with ground moisture.

Common Uses

General construction framing, dimensional lumber, pallets, crates, plywood, and pulpwood for paper.

Geographic Origin

Northern regions of North America, primarily Canada and Northern United States.

Market Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value

$0.60 - $1.20 per board foot (standard commodity construction grade)

Wood Age Estimate

Recently harvested/milled; the wood shows fresh, light oxidation, clear saw marks (fuzzing/tear-out), and no significant silvering or deep patina typical of old reclaimed wood.

Sustainability Status

Highly sustainable; widely available, managed forests, not CITES listed, and generally considered IUCN Least Concern.

Workability

Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; however, the soft fibers can lead to 'fuzzing' or tear-out if blades are dull (as seen on the rough edges of the sample). Glues and finishes well.

Notable Features

Mild resinous scent; lightweight with a high strength-to-weight ratio for its density; prone to splintering at edges where cross-cut.

Finish Recommendations

Usually left unfinished for framing; for decorative use, a wood conditioner is recommended before staining to prevent blotchiness. Accepts paint, polyurethane, and water-based finishes well.

Identification Confidence

High; the combination of pale color, tight softwood grain, characteristic knot structure, and rough-milled 'fuzzed' edges is diagnostic of SPF dimensional construction lumber.

Identified on 5/30/2026
SPF (Spruce-Pine-Fir mix), likely White Spruce or Lodgepole Pine - Picea glauca / Pinus contorta | Wood Identifier