Hickory Wood Guide 2026
Carya spp.
Typically described as extremely strong and shock-resistant
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 50 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Flooring, Tool handles, Rustic furniture
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium
Workability: Very hard and tough; blunts tooling; pre-drill.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Takes finishes well; strong color contrast between heart and sap.
Color change: Minimal change.
Insect resistance: Susceptible
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 Hickory. 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 4–10 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths 4–10 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths 4–10 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths 4–10 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths 4–10 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths 4–10 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths 4–10 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths 4–10 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
Availability notes: Common domestic hardwood, especially for flooring and cabinetry.
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; pale sapwood
Grain: Straight; coarse texture
Common Uses
- Flooring
- Tool handles
- Rustic furniture
- Cabinetry
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Shagbark Hickory;Pignut Hickory
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,820 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States
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 Hickory is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Compare This Wood
Ash vs Hickory
Hickory is the tougher floor that thrives in high-traffic and rustic settings. Ash is the cleaner-looking option ideal for contemporary spaces. Hickory's supply stability gives it an edge given ash's ongoing pest challenges.
View comparisonHickory vs White Oak
White oak is the more versatile and trendy choice for most kitchens. Hickory is the character choice for rustic and farmhouse designs where its bold grain is a feature, not a limitation.
View comparisonBrazilian Cherry (Jatoba) vs Hickory
Hickory offers 90% of Brazilian Cherry's hardness performance at 60% of the cost with better domestic availability and sustainability. Brazilian Cherry is the premium choice for exotic beauty, but hickory is the smarter practical investment.
View comparisonWhite Oak vs Hickory
White oak is the more versatile design choice with better resale value in current markets. Hickory is the performance champion for durability. Both are excellent investments in premium hardwood flooring.
View comparisonExplore More on Lumberama
Popular Applications
Comparisons
Calculators & Tools
Related Blog Posts
Heat Pump Guide: Types, Cost & How They Work
Heat and cool your home efficiently with one system.
Read articleAir Conditioning Guide: Types, Cost & Efficiency
Stay cool and save money on cooling.
Read articleWater Heater Guide: Types, Cost & Replacement
Choose the best water heater for your home.
Read article