walnut lumber​ for sale

Walnut Lumber for Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Premium Walnut Wood.

walnut lumber​ for sale, Walnut lumber is among the most sought-after hardwoods in the woodworking and furniture industries. Renowned for its rich, deep brown color and fine grain, walnut wood brings an unmatched elegance and durability to various woodworking projects. Whether you are a professional carpenter, furniture maker, woodworker, or a DIY enthusiast, finding high-quality walnut lumber for sale is essential to achieving exceptional results.

In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about walnut lumber—from its types and characteristics to how to find the best walnut lumber for sale, pricing trends, and tips for selecting the perfect walnut wood for your project.

What is Walnut Lumber?

Walnut lumber is the wood harvested from walnut trees, primarily the Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) species, native to North America, and European Walnut (Juglans regia), also known as English walnut. Walnut wood is highly prized for its:

  • Rich chocolate-brown to purplish-black color

  • Fine, straight grain with occasional curls and waves

  • Durability and workability

  • Natural resistance to decay and insect damage

Common Walnut Species Used in Lumber

  • Black Walnut (Juglans nigra): The most common and highly valued walnut species in the United States. Known for its darker heartwood and golden sapwood, Black Walnut is favored for fine furniture, cabinetry, and gunstocks.

  • English Walnut (Juglans regia): Grown primarily in Europe and Asia, English walnut tends to have a lighter color and slightly different grain pattern. It is often used for veneer and specialty woodworking.

  • Claro Walnut (Juglans hindsii): Native to Northern California, it has a more rustic appearance with darker streaks and variations, popular for artistic and custom furniture pieces.

Characteristics of Walnut Lumber

Color and Appearance

Walnut heartwood ranges from light brown to a deep chocolate hue, often with streaks of purple or reddish tones. The sapwood is pale yellow or cream-colored, creating a nice contrast if left untrimmed.

Grain and Texture

The grain is typically straight but can exhibit wavy or curly patterns, giving it visual interest. The texture is fine and even, which allows for smooth finishes.

Durability and Strength

Walnut is a dense hardwood, offering excellent strength and moderate hardness on the Janka scale (around 1010 lbf). It is naturally resistant to rot and insects, making it suitable for furniture, flooring, and even gunstocks.

Workability

Walnut is easy to work with hand and machine tools. It cuts cleanly, sands well, and accepts stains, finishes, and polishes beautifully. It also glues and nails well, making it versatile for joinery.

Types of Walnut Lumber for Sale

When searching for walnut lumber, you’ll find different types and cuts based on usage, aesthetics, and availability.

1. Walnut Boards and Planks

Ideal for furniture making, cabinetry, and paneling, boards are typically available in standard thicknesses (e.g., 4/4, 5/4, 8/4, etc.). The width and length vary, but wider and longer boards tend to be more expensive.

2. Walnut Veneer

Thin sheets sliced from a log and glued onto other woods or substrates. Veneers allow for the luxurious look of walnut without the cost or weight of solid lumber.

3. Walnut Slabs

Large, thick pieces of walnut with natural edges are used for live edge tables, benches, and artistic projects. Slabs showcase the wood’s natural beauty, including knots, cracks, and grain patterns.

4. Walnut Turning Blanks

Smaller blocks of walnut specifically prepared for woodturning projects such as bowls, pens, and decorative items.

Where to Buy Walnut Lumber for Sale

Local Lumberyards and Specialty Wood Suppliers

Many local lumberyards stock walnut lumber, but availability can vary. Specialty hardwood suppliers often carry a wider selection, including rare cuts and sizes.

Online Walnut Lumber Retailers

Several online retailers specialize in exotic and domestic hardwoods, including walnut. Purchasing online offers convenience, access to a broader range of options, and sometimes better prices.

Custom Millwork and Sawmills

If you want custom sizes or live edge slabs, contacting a sawmill or custom millwork shop may be the best option. They can cut walnut lumber to your exact specifications.

How to Choose the Best Walnut Lumber for Your Project

1. Consider the Grade

Walnut lumber comes in various grades, generally based on appearance and quality:

  • Select Grade: Minimal knots, consistent color, and grain — ideal for fine furniture and visible pieces.

  • Common Grade: May have knots, color variations, and minor defects — suitable for rustic projects or pieces where imperfections add character.

  • FAS (First and Second): High-quality lumber with minimal defects, often used in commercial woodworking.

2. Look for Straight Grain

Straight-grained walnut is easier to work with and finishes well. Curly or figured grain is more decorative but can be more challenging to cut and sand.

3. Check for Moisture Content

Properly dried walnut lumber has moisture content around 6-8%. Too wet lumber can warp or crack as it dries. Kiln-dried lumber is generally preferred for furniture making.

4. Determine Dimensions Needed

Measure your project carefully and buy walnut boards or slabs that minimize waste. Buying longer or wider boards can be more cost-effective but may require additional handling.

Pricing and Cost of Walnut Lumber

Walnut lumber is considered a premium hardwood, and pricing reflects its quality and scarcity. Prices can fluctuate based on:

  • Grade and Quality: Higher grades cost more.

  • Dimensions: Thicker and wider boards are more expensive.

  • Source and Species: Black walnut is usually pricier than other types.

  • Market Demand: Walnut is popular in luxury furniture, which can drive prices up.

Typical Price Range (Approximate)

  • Walnut boards: $10 to $30+ per board foot.

  • Walnut slabs: $20 to $50+ per board foot depending on size and figure.

  • Walnut veneer: $15 to $40 per square foot.

Uses of Walnut Lumber

Walnut wood’s versatility makes it popular in many woodworking applications.

Furniture Making

Walnut’s color and strength make it ideal for tables, chairs, cabinets, and bedroom furniture.

Cabinetry and Millwork

Its fine grain and smooth finish lend a sophisticated touch to kitchen and bathroom cabinetry.

Flooring

Walnut floors are luxurious and durable, bringing warmth and elegance to any home.

Gunstocks

Due to its strength and workability, walnut is a traditional choice for gunstocks.

Musical Instruments

Its tonal qualities make walnut suitable for guitar backs, sides, and other instruments.

Decorative Items and Turning

Smaller pieces are perfect for crafts, bowls, pens, and artistic woodturning projects.

Caring for Walnut Lumber and Finished Products

To maintain walnut wood’s beauty over time, proper care is essential:

  • Avoid direct sunlight to prevent color fading.

  • Use coasters and pads to protect furniture from water rings and scratches.

  • Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid harsh chemicals.

  • Periodically apply natural oils or wax finishes to nourish the wood.

  • Repair minor scratches with wood touch-up kits designed for walnut.

Walnut Lumber Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Walnut trees grow relatively slowly, making sustainable harvesting important. Responsible suppliers will source walnut lumber from:

  • Sustainably managed forests

  • Certified wood suppliers (FSC or SFI certified)

  • Reclaimed or salvaged walnut wood

Choosing sustainable walnut lumber helps preserve natural resources while supporting ethical forestry practices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Walnut Lumber for Sale

Q1: How do I identify genuine walnut lumber?

Look for deep, rich brown heartwood with occasional purplish hues, fine straight grain, and contrasting pale sapwood. Genuine walnut also has a distinct warm feel and finishes smoothly.

Q2: Can walnut lumber be used outdoors?

While walnut is moderately durable, it is not the best choice for prolonged outdoor exposure unless properly sealed and maintained.

Q3: What is the difference between Black Walnut and Claro Walnut?

Black walnut is darker and more uniform in grain, while Claro walnut has more color variation and a rustic appearance.

Q4: Is walnut lumber good for beginners in woodworking?

Yes, walnut is relatively easy to work with, though figuring and curly grain can be challenging.

Q5: How to store walnut lumber properly?

Store walnut lumber flat, in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Use stickers between boards for air circulation.

Tips for Buying Walnut Lumber Online

  • Check customer reviews and ratings.

  • Request clear photos of the wood grain and defects.

  • Confirm the drying method and moisture content.

  • Understand the return policy in case the lumber does not meet expectations.

  • Compare prices and shipping costs before purchasing.