White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Perishable to slightly durable; low resistance to heartwood decay and susceptible to insect attack (specifically Emerald Ash Borer).
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Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a prominent cathedral pattern in the center; notable ring-porous structure showing distinct earlywood and latewood bands.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium brown; sapwood is wide and creamy white to beige. High luster and tends to amber/yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Perishable to slightly durable; low resistance to heartwood decay and susceptible to insect attack (specifically Emerald Ash Borer).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 - $9.00 per board foot for live-edge or select grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently dried rough-sawn lumber; minimal oxidation or patina, likely cut within the last 1-3 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to Emerald Ash Borer infestation; not currently CITES listed but availability is changing.
Common Uses
Baseball bats, tool handles (shovels, hammers), flooring, cabinetry, fine furniture, and electric guitar bodies.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools; responds well to steam bending; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it requires grain filler for a smooth surface.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; oil finishes (Linseed/Tung) to enhance the grain; grain filler recommended if a glass-smooth finish is desired.
Notable Features
Distinctive ring-porous grain texture; no characteristic odor; shock-resistant properties comparable to Hickory but with less weight.
