Elm Wood Guide 2026
Ulmus spp.
Typically described as tough interlocked grain hardwood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 37 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States;Europe
- Common uses include Furniture, Flooring, Bentwood
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Texture is coarse and uneven due to interlocked grain.
Workability: Can be difficult to work due to interlocked grain but holds bent shapes well.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Requires thorough sanding and pore filling for a smooth finish.
Color change: Little significant color change occurs over time.
Insect resistance: Susceptible to powderpost beetle attack.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Elm. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths are standard in mill-run lumber. | Random lengths typically vary from eight to twelve feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths are standard in mill-run lumber. | Random lengths typically vary from eight to twelve feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths are standard in mill-run lumber. | Random lengths typically vary from eight to twelve feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths are standard in mill-run lumber. | Random lengths typically vary from eight to twelve feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths are standard in mill-run lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically vary from eight to twelve feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard in mill-run lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically vary from eight to twelve feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard in mill-run lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically vary from eight to twelve feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard in mill-run lumber.
- Lengths
- Random lengths typically vary from eight to twelve feet.
Availability notes: Available through local hardwood suppliers though supplies vary by region.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Light to medium brown; coarse texture
Grain: Interlocked; ring-porous
Common Uses
- Furniture
- Flooring
- Bentwood
- Veneer
Key Characteristics
Also known as: American Elm;Wych Elm
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 830 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States;Europe
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Elm is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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