Southern Yellow Pine Wood Guide 2026
Pinus spp.
Typically described as strong and dense construction softwood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 35 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Softwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Framing, Decking, Treated lumber
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium to coarse
Workability: Machines well; resinous; hard for a softwood.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Accepts paint and stain; seal knots.
Color change: Yellow-orange darkens with age.
Insect resistance: Susceptible untreated; commonly pressure-treated
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 Southern Yellow Pine. 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) | Nominal 2x4 through 2x12; 5/4x6 decking; timbers 4x4 to 6x6 | 8–20 ft even lengths | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Nominal 2x4 through 2x12; 5/4x6 decking; timbers 4x4 to 6x6 | 8–20 ft even lengths | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Nominal 2x4 through 2x12; 5/4x6 decking; timbers 4x4 to 6x6
- Lengths
- 8–20 ft even lengths
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Nominal 2x4 through 2x12; 5/4x6 decking; timbers 4x4 to 6x6
- Lengths
- 8–20 ft even lengths
Decking & exterior profiles
5/4x6 radius-edge decking, 2x6, 4x4, 6x6 (typically pressure-treated); framing lumber
Availability notes: Dominant framing and treated-lumber species in the eastern US.
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 yellow to reddish brown
Grain: Straight; coarse texture
Common Uses
- Framing
- Decking
- Treated lumber
- Flooring
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Longleaf Pine;Loblolly Pine
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 870 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Southern Yellow Pine is unavailable or over budget.
- Douglas Fir660 lbf Janka
- Hem-Fir490 lbf Janka
- Spruce-Pine-Fir
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