Ash Hardwood Lumber for Furniture & More

Ash is a domestic hardwood with a prominent open grain, pale cream to light brown colour, and excellent strength and flexibility. It has a Janka hardness of approximately 1320, similar to hard maple. Ash is known for shock resistance, which makes it the traditional choice for tool handles, sports equipment, and bent wood applications in addition to furniture and cabinetry.

Ash is excellent for furniture, cabinetry, interior doors, flooring, stair components, and decorative millwork. Its open grain accepts stain readily and produces attractive results. Ash's strength and flexibility also make it suitable for steam-bent components and structural elements in furniture where other species would require thicker cross-sections.

Ash and white oak are similar in hardness and grain structure. Ash has a slightly more uniform grain pattern, a lighter base colour, and bends more easily. Oak has better natural durability and more availability in a wider range of grades. Both accept stain well and are suitable for the same range of furniture and cabinetry applications.

Yes. Ash species in Canada and the United States have been significantly impacted by the emerald ash borer beetle, an invasive species that has killed millions of ash trees across North America. This has affected ash lumber availability and pricing. Windsor Plywood sources ash from suppliers with responsible forest management practices. Contact your local branch to confirm current availability.

Ash accepts most wood finishes including oil-based and water-based stains, polyurethane, oil finishes, and paint. The open grain benefits from a grain filler when a smooth painted finish is required. For stained applications, ash's consistent porosity produces even colour absorption across the surface.