Timber Species Radiata Pine

Pinus radiata

Radiata Pine

Also known as: Monterey Pine

Region of Origin: New Zealand
MouldingsFinishing LinesGeneral ConstructionInterior JoineryExterior Joinery (treated)FramingPoles & Posts
Density
480 kg/m³
Durability
Non-Durable
Janka
3.4 kN
Strength Group
SD6
Radiata Pine timber grainTimber Grain

About this Timber

General Description

This softwood has large, wide, pale-coloured sapwood, which is distinct from the pinkish-brown heartwood. There is moderate growth-ring figure resulting in a relatively uniform and fine texture. The timber has moderate to high lustre and readily accepts preservative treatment.

Working Properties

How This Timber Works

Works well with little dulling effect on tools, providing a clean finish except around knots that tend to tear. Nail holding is good, gluing is satisfactory and the surfaces will provide a satisfactory finish.

Mechanical Properties

The bending strength and stiffness qualities are low, crushing strength and resistance to shock loads is medium. It is not suitable for steam bending purposes.

Technical Data

Technical Specifications

Density
480kg/m³
Air dry density (avg)
Durability Class
Non-Durable
Strength Group
SD6
Structural classification
Janka Hardness
3.4kN
Surface hardness rating
MOR — Modulus of Rupture
71
Seasoned MPa
MOE — Modulus of Elasticity
9.7
Seasoned GPa
Shrinkage — Green to 12% Moisture Content
6.0%
Tangential
3.0%
Radial
Dimensional change from green timber to 12% moisture content

*Air Dry Density (kg/m³) is an average indication only and actual values may vary. Refer to strength, shrinkage and durability classification tables for full details.

Reference Tables

Timber Classification Tables

Standard NZ classification tables for strength groupings, shrinkage and durability. This species is highlighted in each table.

Minimum Values for Strength Groups
Unseasoned Timber  |  Units: MPa = 145 lb/sq.inch
Strength Group Modulus of Rupture Modulus of Elasticity Max Crushing Strength
S1 103 16300 52
S2 76 14200 43
S3 73 12400 36
S4 62 10700 31
S5 52 9100 26
S6 43 7900 22
S7 36 6900 18
Minimum Values for Strength Groups
Seasoned Timber  |  Units: MPa = 145 lb/sq.inch
Strength Group Modulus of Rupture Modulus of Elasticity Max Crushing Strength
SD1 150 21500 80
SD2 130 18500 70
SD3 110 16000 61
SD4 94 14000 54
SD5 78 12500 47
SD6 65 10500 41
SD7 55 9100 36
SD8 45 7900 30
Shrinkage Classifications
Shrinkage from Green to Oven-dry (12% MC) – % before reconditioning
Description of Shrinkage Tangential Radial
Very Low0 – 3.50 – 2
Low3.5 – 5.02 – 3
Medium5.0 – 6.53 – 4
High6.5 – 8.04 – 5
Very High> 8.0> 5
Durability Classifications
Approximate service life (years)
Grade of Durability Fully Protected Above Ground, Exposed In-Ground, Exposed
Very Durable> 50> 40> 25
Durable> 5015 – 4015 – 25
Moderately Durable> 507 – 155 – 15
Non-Durable> 500 – 70 – 5
This species – Strength Group
SD6
Highlighted in the strength tables above
This species – Durability
Non-Durable
Highlighted in the durability table above

Applications

Main Uses

Mouldings Finishing Lines General Construction Interior Joinery Exterior Joinery (treated) Framing Poles & Posts

Stock & Sizes

Availability

Sawn 25mm, 40mm, 50mm, 75mm and 100mm thicknesses available kiln dried in H3 treated and untreated options. TG&V panelling profiles.

Quality Standard

Grading

Grade No.1 & No.2 Clears, Shiplap truck decking, FJ cavity battens