White Birch
Betula papyrifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northern North America, across Canada and the northern United States.
- Hardness
- 910 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with little visible distinction from the heartwood. Low natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
910 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately low, approximately $3.00 to $5.00 per board foot for domestic utility hardwoods.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a relatively recent sample, roughly 5 to 20 years old based on surface wear and weathering.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN.
Common Uses
Plywood, interior furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, toothpicks, and pulpwood.
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, across Canada and the northern United States.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing due to friction. Glues, turns, and stains well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes exceptionally well, particularly when using a pre-stain conditioner to prevent blotchiness; polyurethane and lacquer work well.
Notable Features
Features characteristic papery bark layers and a pale, uniform appearance with fine pores.
