White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Prominent, coarse, ring-porous grain with a straight to slightly wavy cathedral figure. The texture is coarse and uneven, characteristic of flat-sawn ash boards.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light to medium brown, while sapwood is wide and ranges from beige to light brown. This sample appears to be light-colored sapwood with a medium luster and low chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack (including Emerald Ash Borer).
Common Uses
Tool handles (hammers, axes), baseball bats, flooring, cabinetry, millwork, and furniture.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern stock (likely under 5-10 years) based on the lack of oxidation, light color, and fresh-milled appearance of the surface fibers.
Sustainability Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation, though current availability remains high as trees are being harvested before they succumb to the beetle.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It responds well to steam bending, glues well, and takes stains and finishes easily. Does not have a high silica content, so it is not overly dulling to blades.
Notable Features
Excellent shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio. It has a distinct lack of a strong scent when worked, unlike oak or cedar.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well, including polyurethane, lacquer, and oils. Due to its large open pores, a grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth high-gloss finish is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the open-pore structure, distinct ring-porous growth ring transitions, and specific beige-tan color palette are classic hallmarks of White Ash.