Birch (Yellow or White)
Betula alleghaniensis / Betula papyrifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, uniform texture. This sample shows flat-sawn cathedral patterns with visible small tight knots and some slight waviness near the handle attachment point.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown to golden yellow; sapwood is pale white-creamy yellow. The sample shows significant ambering from an aged finish, surface wear revealing lighter wood beneath, and darkened mineral streaks.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left unprotected or exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Plywood, mid-century modern furniture (Eames style), veneer, interior trim, cabinetry, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot for solid select grade; plywood varies by thickness.
Wood Age Estimate
40 to 60 years based on the ambered lacquer finish, patina of the metal fasteners, and mid-century furniture design characteristics.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can occasionally exhibit grain tearout during planing if grain is figured. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive odor. It is known for its high shock resistance and its historical use in molded plywood furniture due to its ability to be sliced into thin, strong veneers.
Finish Recommendations
Sanding to remove aged/failed finish followed by clear polyurethane or lacquer to highlight the natural golden tones. Avoid heavy staining as birch can blotch.
Identification Confidence
High. The grain structure, small knot character, and the specific application on a molded plywood chair (likely a vintage school or office chair) are classic indicators of Birch.