Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and parts of eastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture, commonly flat-sawn and plain-sliced in manufactured panels.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with pale yellowish-white sapwood, heavily tinted by a dark medium-brown stained finish applied to the furniture piece, displaying moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 15 to 30 years old based on modern factory construction techniques and finish wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern species according to the IUCN; widely available and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior millwork, doors, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and parts of eastern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn during routing if feed rates are too slow; glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes exceptionally well; sprayed or wiped polyurethane, lacquer, or conversion varnish are standard for factory-finished furniture.
Notable Features
Heavy and strong with uniform texture, minimal odor when dry, and no significant toxic properties.
