Hophornbeam (Ironwood)
Ostrya virginiana
Hardness
Very hard; tough on tools but extremely wear-resistant.
Overview
One of the hardest, strongest domestic woods, true to its 'ironwood' nickname. Pale, dense, and tough, used where wear resistance matters most.
Commonly built
- Tool handles
- Mallets
- Fence posts
- Turned parts
Appearance
Pale white to light reddish-brown, very fine and even-textured with little figure.
Recommended uses
Uses to avoid
Similar species
Comparable on hardness, type, and workability, useful when this species isn't available.
Working notes
Extremely hard and dense, hard on edges, slow to work. Available only in small sizes from small trees. Excellent wear resistance. Turns and finishes well with patience.
Wood movement
A 24-inch-wide flatsawn hophornbeam (ironwood) panel moves roughly 0.56 inch across a typical seasonal humidity swing (about 6% to 12% moisture content). Use the wood movement calculator to run your own board size and moisture range.
How much does Hophornbeam (Ironwood) move? → See flatsawn vs. quartersawn figures and a worked example.
Common questions
How hard is Hophornbeam (Ironwood)?
Hophornbeam (Ironwood) has a Janka hardness of 1860 lbf, a measure of how well it resists denting and wear.
Is Hophornbeam (Ironwood) suitable for outdoor use?
Hophornbeam (Ironwood) is best used indoors; it is not naturally suited to sustained outdoor or wet conditions.
How easy is Hophornbeam (Ironwood) to work with?
Hophornbeam (Ironwood) has Difficult workability for cutting, shaping, and joinery.
How much does Hophornbeam (Ironwood) move seasonally?
A 24-inch-wide flatsawn hophornbeam (ironwood) panel moves roughly 0.56 inch across a typical seasonal humidity swing (about 6% to 12% moisture content).
Community photos
Real photos from woodworkers who've used hophornbeam (ironwood), reviewed before they appear here.
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Wood data varies by source and sample. How we source and review our data.