Eastern White Pine
Pinus strobus
Family: Pinaceae
Quick Facts
Wood Type
Softwood
Native Range
North America
Avg. Dried Weight
25 lb/ft³
Janka Hardness
380 lbf
Decay Resistance
Non-Durable
Typical Color
White / Straw
Stability
High
Outdoor Suitability
Poor
Workability
Easy
Availability
Commercially Available
CITES
Unlisted
IUCN
Least Concern
Did You Know?
- •Eastern White Pine is softer than 98% of species in our database, making it one of the lightest and easiest to work by hand.
Janka Hardness Scale
Very Soft
Overview
Professional Summary
Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) is the most important softwood lumber species in eastern North America. With its light weight, fine texture, and exceptional workability, it's been the go-to species for millwork, interior trim, and general construction since colonial times. Low Janka hardness of 380 lbf makes it the softest commercial pine.
In Plain English
Eastern White Pine is the classic New England wood — the wide-plank floors in old farmhouses, the trim in colonial homes, and the knotty pine paneling in lakeside cabins. It's soft, lightweight, easy to work, and affordable. Perfect for interior trim, shelving, and rustic furniture.
Appearance
Technical Properties
Movement Predictor
Estimate how much a Eastern White Pine board changes width as moisture content changes.
+0.078 in (1.99 mm)
Linear estimate using tangential shrinkage (6.1%, green to oven-dry) and a 28% fiber saturation point. Real movement varies by board, finish, and grain; not a design value.
Sources, Conditions & Safety
No documented references are attached to this profile yet. Its recorded values should not be treated as source-verified.
Wood dust & sensitivity
Species-specific safety information has not been documented here. Absence of a warning does not mean the wood is safe or non-allergenic.
Use dust extraction and appropriate protective equipment; consult occupational-safety guidance. This is not medical advice or food-contact approval.
Durability & Performance
Workability
Common Uses
The standard species for interior trim, molding, shelving, knotty pine paneling, carving, and light construction. Wide boards available for traditional wide-plank flooring.
Sustainability & Trade
Listings are reference information, not proof of legal sourcing or certification. Verify current trade rules and supplier documentation before buying; absence of a note does not mean unrestricted trade.
Very soft — dents and scratches easily. Not naturally durable outdoors. Knots can bleed resin, especially near heat sources.
Native Distribution
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Look-Alike Species
Woods with a similar white / straw color that are easily confused with Eastern White Pine. Recorded differences are shown where data exists; confirm identification with end-grain examination.