White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to perishable; susceptible to powderpost beetles and decay when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Prominent open-grained texture with a straight grain pattern and a distinct cathedral (flat-sawn) growth ring arch, featuring a tight knot.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with paler, whitish sapwood; moderate natural luster that tends to yellow slightly over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to perishable; susceptible to powderpost beetles and decay when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or kiln-dried lumber, estimated less than 5 years old based on clean surface texture and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Severely threatened across North America due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer; not currently CITES listed, but IUCN status is critically endangered in some regions.
Common Uses
Tool handles, baseball bats, furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and bending wood applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; turns, glues, and takes finishes well, though prone to occasional tearout on figured sections if planer blades are not sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, oils, and lacquers exceptionally well due to its open grain; sanding to 150-180 grit is recommended before application.
Notable Features
Exceptional shock resistance, high bending strength, and a distinct ring-porous end grain structure.
