White Pine (likely Eastern White Pine)

Pinus strobusSoftwood

White Pine (likely Eastern White Pine)

Grain Pattern

Straight, medium grain with prominent V-shaped cathedral patterns from flat-sawing; contains tight knots and rough-sawn circular saw marks on the surface.

Color Description

Heartwood is a pale yellow to light brown, potentially darkening to a deeper tan with age; sapwood is yellowish-white. Low luster in its current unrefined state.

Hardness Rating

380 lbf (Very Soft)

Durability Rating

Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or in contact with soil.

Common Uses

Interior millwork, construction lumber, crates, boxes, carving, matches, and furniture backing.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America (United States and Canada).

Market Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value

$2.00 to $5.00 per board foot depending on grade (this sample appears to be Utility or Common grade).

Wood Age Estimate

Freshly milled to several months old; minimal oxidation or grey weathering suggests it has been stored indoors or recently cut.

Sustainability Status

Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. FSC certification is common.

Workability

Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools; saws and planes easily, though the soft nature makes it prone to indentations and surface fuzzing if tools aren't sharp.

Notable Features

Faint, resinous pine scent; very lightweight; low resin content compared to Yellow Pine; may cause minor respiratory irritation from dust.

Finish Recommendations

Wipe-on poly, shellac, or paint. Requires a wood conditioner/pre-stain if staining to avoid various absorption rates (blotching).

Identification Confidence

Medium-High; the cathedral grain, light color, and characteristic dark knot with surrounding sapwood are consistent with Pinus strobus, though it could be a similar white pine species.

Identified on 5/1/2026