Reclaimed Elm (likely American Elm or Siberian Elm)
Ulmus americana / Ulmus pumila · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- North America and Northern Asia
- Hardness
- 830 - 1540 lbf (Medium to Hard, depending on species)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable regarding outdoor rot, but very resilient when kept indoors.
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Grain Pattern
Strong, prominent flat-sawn cathedral grain with distinct wavy growth ring boundaries and uneven earlywood to latewood transitions.
Color & Appearance
Golden honey-brown to light amber with dark brown growth rings and slight grayish oxidation in natural checks.
Hardness (Janka)
830 - 1540 lbf (Medium to Hard, depending on species)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable regarding outdoor rot, but very resilient when kept indoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $12.00 per board foot for reclaimed or aged stock
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50+ years, showing signs of natural aging, checking, and an aged warm clear coat/wax finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant when sourced from reclaimed materials or Siberian Elm; American Elm remains affected by Dutch Elm Disease.
Common Uses
Rustic furniture, mirror/picture frames, decorative paneling, tabletops, and architectural accents.
Geographic Origin
North America and Northern Asia
Workability
Fairly easy to cut, but interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; glues and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Paste wax, tung oil, or polyurethane to seal and highlight the bold growth ring contrast without darkening the pores excessively.
Notable Features
Distinctive ring-porous grain pattern, tendency to develop attractive superficial checks, strong ring contrast.
