5-Ash Wood

2022-11-29

Frequently Asked Questions About Ash Wood

Because there are many ash wood products on the market, people often wonder how it compares to other wood types and what it’s like to own a piece of ash wood furniture. We’ll address some of the most common questions below.
5-Ash Wood

What Color is Ash Wood?

Unlike other trees which have large color variations between the innermost part of the tree (heartwood) and the outermost part of the tree (sapwood), it can sometimes be difficult to see where the line between the two is with ash. Overall, it’s quite light and tends to be various shades of beige which will darken slightly over time.

Why Does Ash Wood Change Colors Over Time?

All hardwoods tend to change hues a bit as the years go by. Generally speaking, lighter varieties will become richer, while darker woods will lighten some. This is a natural process caused by exposure to UV light and oxygen.

What are the Common Uses of Ash Wood?

Going back to ancient times, ash wood has been a major part of people’s lives. Early cultures used it for everything—from weapons to wagons—and even believed it had spiritual properties or the ability to heal and bring prosperity. These days, ash remains common in furniture, cabinets, flooring, tools, weapons, sports equipment, and more.

What Does the Grain Pattern of Ash Wood Look Like?

Ash wood almost always has a straight grain, though the conditions the tree grows in will occasionally create unique patterns. For example, if it’s strained or succumbs to a pest, that can impact the appearance of the grain. This is referred to as “figured wood.” For this reason, you’ll sometimes see curly or birdseye grain, among others. Spalted ash, in particular, is quite popular with artisan furniture designers, though figured woods are a bit harder to find than the straight-grained variety.

Is Ash a Hardwood or a Softwood?

While most people think “hardwood” is a reference to the durability or density of wood, it actually only refers to the type of tree the wood came from. If it’s a hardwood, that means it came from a dicot tree-- typically a broad-leafed variety of tree. If it’s a softwood, it came from a gymnosperm tree-- typically a conifer. Ash is a hardwood, along with cherry, oak, walnut, and maple. In contrast, some of the common softwoods found in woodworking include pine, fir, and cedar.