Rustic Hickory Wood Guide 2026
Carya spp.
Typically described as hickory with natural character marks
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 32 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Rustic flooring, Cabinetry, Lodge interiors
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Coarse and uneven with prominent grain patterns.
Workability: Difficult to machine due to high density.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Stains can be difficult to apply evenly due to density variations.
Color change: Minimal color change over time.
Insect resistance: Low resistance to decay and insects.
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 Rustic 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 ranging from 3 to 12 inches. | Random lengths 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths ranging from 3 to 12 inches. | Random lengths 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths ranging from 3 to 12 inches. | Random lengths 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths ranging from 3 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths 6 to 12 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths ranging from 3 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths 6 to 12 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths ranging from 3 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths 6 to 12 feet.
Availability notes: Widely available as a domestic hardwood lumber.
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 dark brown; high contrast
Grain: Straight; coarse texture
Common Uses
- Rustic flooring
- Cabinetry
- Lodge interiors
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Knotty Hickory;Character 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 Rustic Hickory is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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