American Beech
Fagus grandifolia • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight with a fine to medium uniform texture; small medullary rays visible as tiny dark flecks in the end grain and as silver-fleck or shimmer in quarter-sawn sections.
Color Description
Typically a pale cream color, sometimes with a pink or brown cast. Heartwood is light to medium reddish brown, while sapwood is pale white; color tends to darken slightly with age to a more golden brown.
Hardness Rating
1,300 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, tool handles, woodenware, turned objects, veneer, and fuel (firewood).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut logs (less than 6 months old) based on the light color of the exposed end grain and the intact, tight grey bark.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widespread availability and generally considered sustainable with FSC options available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machine and hand tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate and can be prone to movement; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Odors are generally absent; high crushing strength; known for excellent steam-bending properties; identifiable by its uniquely smooth, thin grey bark.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all types of finishes including oil, polyurethane, and lacquer; staining can sometimes be blotchy due to grain density, so a sealer is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High; the smooth, 'elephant-skin' grey bark combined with the light-colored end grain and distinct growth rings are classic indicators of American Beech.