Heartwood is vivid reddish orange when freshly cut, darkening to reddish- or purple- brown or black over time. Sapwood is cream-colored. Very uniform in color.
Top portion is finished with water-base finish; bottom with oil-based finish
Appearance
Color: Heartwood varies from light yellow/orange to reddish brown or yellowish brown; sapwood is light tan to yellowish white.
Grain: Closed, with high figuring; patterns range from clear to knotty.
Variations Within Species And Grades: Longleaf pine (P. palustris), shortleaf pine (P. echinata), loblolly pine (P. taedo), slash pine (P. elliottii). All have many of the same characteristics as Douglas fir
Workability
Sawing/Machining: Good machining qualities.
Sanding: Resin in wood tends to clog abrasives; frequent sandpaper changes are required.
Nailing: Good holding ability and resistance to splitting.
Finishing: A durable finish can help minimize wear.
Comments Origin: North America
Properties
Hardness/Janka: Loblolly and shortleaf 690, 47% softer than Northern red oak; longleaf 870, 33% softer than Northern red oak.
Dimensional Stability: Above average (change coefficient .00265; 28% more stable than red oak).
Durability: Soft, fairly durable, although not as resistant to scuffs, dents and abrasions as the hardwoods. Often used for flooring, but may not be suitable for all applications due to its softness.
Easily available.
