White Pine (Eastern White Pine)
Pinus strobus • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, even texture. Shows typical flat-sawn cathedral patterns further down the board with faint growth ring transitions.
Color Description
Creamy white to pale straw heartwood that darkens to a golden yellow or light brown over time. Sapwood is a pale yellow-white. Low luster, typically finishes matte.
Hardness Rating
380 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Commonly rated as non-durable to slightly durable regarding decay resistance. Low resistance to rot and insect attack when exposed to soil or moisture.
Common Uses
Light framing, interior trim, paneling, furniture carcases, pattern making, boat building (masts), and simple DIY projects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $2.50 - $4.00 per board foot for select grades; lower for common/utility grades.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young (roughly 1-3 years since milling). The lack of grey weathering and the presence of rough mill marks suggest it is recent construction-grade scrap.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available and FSC certified.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools. Cuts and planes easily, though the soft fibers can 'fuzz' or tear out if tools are not extremely sharp. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Faint, resinous scent when cut. Very lightweight and easy to handle. Occasional resin canals may be present.
Finish Recommendations
Takes most finishes well, but can be prone to 'blotching' when stained. A clear polyurethane, shellac, or paint is recommended for this grade of wood.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the pale color, visible softwood grain structure, soft texture with fuzzy tear-out, and characteristic flat-sawn figure is indicative of Pinus strobus.