Native Regions
White Ash primarily grows in the Appellation Region as well as the North Eastern Regions of the United States and Canada. It is most productive in rich, deep soils that have moist and well drained landscapes. White ash primarily thrives in lowland elevations that are not subjected to sustained harsh weather conditions.
Characteristics
Ash's color ranges from a pale yellow to brown. It typically has a straight grain pattern, with a coarse texture with open pores. Also, it has a very good strength characteristic relative to its weight, which typically averages 42lbs/cu. ft. The average weight is typically 42 lbs/cu. ft. The wood is very hard and stiff, and rates excellent for shock resistance. It is not considered an exceptionally durable wood, so it is usually not used for outdoor projects.
Properties
Ash has good overall workability with both power equipment and hand tools. It possesses very good steam bending qualities, and rates high in holding strength for fasteners, but pre-drilling is recommended. Also, it accepts most all types of glue without problems. Ash sands well and accepts finishes exceptionally well. Because of its open pores and coarse texture, paste wood filler should be used prior to applying stains and finishes. This will even out the surface and help provide a smooth glossy finish job. The grain pattern is attractive and clear finishes, without stain, will bring out its natural beauty.
Main Uses
Due to its good steam bending properties, ash is used in furniture and chair construction, where bending is necessary. Most notably, ash is used for sports and athletic equipment. Because of its hardness, shock resistance strength to weight ratio, ash is an excellent wood for making baseball bats, rowing oars, hockey sticks, and pool cues. Ash is also in demand for moldings, flooring, tool handles and various types of turnings.
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