Eastern White Pine Lumber

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Eastern White Pine is a versatile and attractive softwood with a pale yellowish-brown color. It is easy to work with, has a straight grain, and accepts finishes well. This widely available wood is used in various applications, including construction, furniture, and cabinetry.

Common Name(s)Eastern White Pine
Scientific NamePinus strobus
DistributionEastern North America
Tree SizeHeight: 80-100 ft (24-30 m), Diameter: 2-4 ft (0.6-1.2 m)
Average Dried Weight28 lbs/ft3 (450 kg/m3)
Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC)0.45
Janka Hardness380 lbf (1,690 N)
Modulus of Rupture8,800 lbf/in2 (60.7 MPa)
Elastic Modulus1,290,000 lbf/in2 (8.90 GPa)
Crushing Strength4,940 lbf/in2 (34.0 MPa)
ShrinkageRadial: 4.4%, Tangential: 7.2%, Volumetric: 11.8%, T/R Ratio: 1.6

Color/Appearance: Eastern White Pine typically has a pale yellowish-brown color that darkens over time to a deeper amber hue. The sapwood is usually lighter in color and may appear nearly white.

Grain/Texture: The grain of Eastern White Pine is usually straight, with a fine to medium texture. It has a uniform and even texture, which makes it relatively easy to work with.

Endgrain: The end grain of Eastern White Pine is typically small and diffuse. It features resin canals that are evenly distributed throughout the growth rings.

Rot Resistance: Eastern White Pine is not naturally resistant to decay and is susceptible to rot, particularly when in contact with the ground. It is important to protect it from moisture and use appropriate finishes or treatments to enhance its durability.

Workability: Eastern White Pine is known for being easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It has good dimensional stability, and its soft and lightweight nature makes it easy to cut, shape, and sand. It also accepts stains, paints, and finishes well.

Odor: Eastern White Pine has a mild, resinous scent that can be quite pleasant.

Allergies/Toxicity: Eastern White Pine generally does not pose significant health risks. However, some individuals may experience respiratory irritation or allergic reactions when exposed to wood dust.

Pricing/Availability: Eastern White Pine is widely available and is generally less expensive than many other commonly used woods. Its affordability and availability make it a popular choice for various applications.

Sustainability: Eastern White Pine is a sustainable choice as it is a fast-growing species that can be grown in managed forests. Responsible forestry practices ensure the long-term health and availability of Eastern White Pine.

Common Use

Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) is a versatile tree with a wide range of practical and aesthetic uses. Here are some common applications for Eastern White Pine:

Construction

Eastern White Pine is highly valued in the construction industry. Its straight grain, fine texture, and light weight make it an ideal choice for various building projects. It is commonly used for framing, sheathing, flooring, and interior trim.

Cabinetry and Furniture

The attractive appearance and workability of Eastern White Pine make it a popular choice for cabinetry and furniture making. Its light color and a smooth finish provide a classic and timeless aesthetic. It is often used for crafting tables, cabinets, shelving, and other indoor furniture pieces.

Paneling and Siding

Eastern White Pine is frequently utilized for interior paneling and exterior siding due to its durability and easy workability. It can be finished with stains or paints to achieve a desired look and provides a warm and inviting atmosphere in homes and commercial spaces.

Doors and Windows

Eastern White Pine is commonly used for crafting doors and window frames. Its stability, resistance to warping, and natural beauty make it an excellent choice for these essential components of a building.

Moldings and Trim

Eastern White Pine is often used for creating decorative moldings, baseboards, crown moldings, and other interior trim elements. Its ability to hold fine details and its ability to take stain well make it a preferred choice for adding elegance and character to interior spaces.

Outdoor Structures

Eastern White Pine is utilized in the construction of outdoor structures such as gazebos, pergolas, and fences. Its natural resistance to decay and insects, along with its aesthetic appeal, make it an excellent choice for enhancing outdoor living spaces.

Landscaping

Eastern White Pine is frequently planted as an ornamental tree in landscapes. Its tall stature, graceful appearance, and evergreen foliage make it an excellent choice for providing privacy screens, windbreaks, and visual interest in gardens and parks.

Wood Crafts

Eastern White Pine is a popular choice for various woodcraft projects. Its softness and workability make it easy to carve, shape, and create intricate designs. It is commonly used for crafting wooden toys, decorative carvings, and artistic sculptures.

Paper and Pulp

Eastern White Pine has been historically used in the production of paper and pulp. Its long fibers and relatively low resin content make it suitable for manufacturing high-quality paper products.

The versatility and abundance of Eastern White Pine make it a valuable resource in many industries. Its combination of beauty, durability, and workability has solidified its reputation as a preferred choice for a wide range of applications.

Forestry
Forestry
Forestry Author

2 comments

Any idea why I could buy a chunk of white pine for a carving?

Daniel Adams
Donna Norsen
June 13, 2023 8:59 pm

You can check out our Marketplace click here: https://forestry.com/marketplace

Kristin Watsons
forestry
June 14, 2023 12:13 am

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