White Pine (likely Eastern White Pine)
Pinus strobus • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with a very even texture. Showing a flat-sawn face in the foreground and a rough end-grain cut above.
Color Description
Heartwood is light brown or cream with a slightly reddish hue; sapwood is pale yellow to nearly white. Wood tends to darken to a golden yellow over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
380 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Slightly Durable to Non-durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack if used outdoors without treatment.
Common Uses
Light construction, interior millwork, crates, boxes, matches, carvings, and basic furniture.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (USA and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $2.00 - $4.00 per board foot depending on grade/width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber; the sample appears relatively fresh with little oxidation, likely less than 5 years old based on brightness.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); highly sustainable and widely available with FSC certification commonly available.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools. It is very easy to plane, sand, and carve, though it is prone to indentation due to its softness.
Notable Features
Faint resinous/piney scent when worked; very lightweight; tends to bleed resin if large knots are present.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint very well; if staining, a pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching. Clear polyurethane or shellac works well for a natural look.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the pale color, fine straight grain, and fuzzy end-grain fibers from a rough saw cut are classic indicators of soft white pine.