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Strong, resilient, and beautifully grained, ash wood is a top choice for those seeking both durability and timeless appeal. We carry high-quality ash lumber and products ideal for furniture making, cabinetry, flooring, millwork, and more. Known for its light colour and straight, pronounced grain, ash offers a clean, classic look that takes stain and finishes exceptionally well—making it a versatile option for both modern and traditional designs. Its excellent shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio also make it a favourite among woodworkers and craftsmen who value performance as much as appearance. As a proudly Canadian company, Windsor Plywood is your go-to source for hard-to-find wood species and personalized, expert service. Whether you’re building from scratch or updating a space, discover the beauty and workability of ash and bring quality craftsmanship to your next project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ash wood and what are its main characteristics?
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.
What woodworking applications is ash well suited for?
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.
How does ash compare to oak?
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.
Is ash affected by the emerald ash borer?
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.
What finishes work well on ash?
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.