Most likely old-growth Eastern white pine; alternatives include poplar or fir, though the molding profile and soft, fine texture favor pine.
Pinus strobus · Softwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, especially the Northeast and Great Lakes regions.
- Hardness
- Janka about 380 lbf — Very Soft.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; heartwood has limited decay resistance, while sapwood is vulnerable to rot and insects, especially with moisture exposure.
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Grain Pattern
Likely straight, fine, and relatively uniform; the narrow molding appears painted and offers little visible figure. End grain is not clearly exposed.
Color & Appearance
Originally pale cream to light yellow-brown with subtle growth-ring contrast; aged pine commonly darkens to honey-brown beneath paint and develops oxidation-related patina.
Hardness (Janka)
Janka about 380 lbf — Very Soft.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; heartwood has limited decay resistance, while sapwood is vulnerable to rot and insects, especially with moisture exposure.
Value & Age
About $2–$5 per board foot for comparable reclaimed painted pine; architectural salvage value may be higher.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The molding may date from the house’s construction, approximately 120–130 years old, but the wood’s biological age cannot be determined visually.
Common Uses
Interior trim, baseboards, doors, paneling, furniture, and general millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, especially the Northeast and Great Lakes regions.
Workability
Very easy to cut, plane, sand, nail, screw, and glue; soft fibers dent readily and resin or old paint can foul abrasives.
Finish Recommendations
For repainting, remove loose coating, clean, lightly sand, and use a stain-blocking primer before enamel. For bare wood, seal knots and use shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane.
Notable Features
Lightweight, resinous, low-density wood with visible earlywood/latewood bands; old paint layers and hand-applied molding marks may be historically informative.
Notes
Molding on baseboard 1900 house