American Beech
Fagus grandifolia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada).
- Hardness
- 1,300 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
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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 & Appearance
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 (Janka)
1,300 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
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.
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).
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.
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.
Notable Features
Odors are generally absent; high crushing strength; known for excellent steam-bending properties; identifiable by its uniquely smooth, thin grey bark.
