Ash

Technological properties

Sawing is easy, with moderate blunting of saws. Its weight is variable; in general it is similar to beech. It is a strong wood, particularly notable for its rigidity. It is sawn and machined easily, obtaining a good finish, and can be steam bent without difficulty. It is perishable and unsuitable for outdoors, unless first treated.

Suitable for obtaining rolled and sliced veneer.

Origin and availability

It is found in the north east of the United States and in the south east of Canada. Its forest plantations are extensive. Its production, export and commercialisation are stable and constant. It is commercially significant in Europe, North America and japan. The trees are of a medium or large size, from 20 to 30m tall, with a trunk from 60cm to 1m in diameter.

Description of the wood

The colour of the sapwood is white, and the heartwood is light brown, greyish brown or pale yellow with brown grain. The colour of the heartwood may also be cream or very light brown, and occasionally has brown grain. The fibre is straight and the grain is coarse or thick.

Natural durability

In general, it is classified as a non-durable wood, although there is no information on its natural durability against different agents.

The heartwood is moderately penetrable, and the sapwood is penetrable.

Applications and use

Variable in nature. For sports items, staircase steps, curved elements of furniture and shipbuilding, flooring, luxury carpentry, etc.