Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. (likely Pinus palustris or Pinus taeda) • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to uneven grain; very prominent latewood bands characteristic of flat-sawn pine appearing through the paint as raised ridges.
Color Description
Natural heartwood is reddish-brown while sapwood is yellowish-white; however, this sample is currently obscured by a dark blue opaque paint/stain finish.
Hardness Rating
690-870 lbf (Soft to Medium Hardness range)
Durability Rating
Low to moderate natural durability; non-durable without chemical treatment especially when exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Construction lumber, pallets, siding, interior trim, furniture, and decking (often pressure-treated).
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$1.50 - $4.00 per board foot depending on grade and treatment.
Wood Age Estimate
5-15 years based on the heavy grain compression and modern manufacturing appearance of the boards.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; widely available, fast-growing, and frequently FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though resinous nature can clog sandpaper and saw blades.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high pitch content; prominent grain relief often becomes visible through paint as the wood shrinks and expands.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a primer to prevent sap/resin bleed-through; currently finished with an opaque, high-solids blue paint or heavy stain.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The strong raised grain pattern and growth ring width are hallmarks of Southern Yellow Pine common in utility and construction applications.