Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight or slightly wavy with a fine, even texture. The image shows a flat-sawn or rotary-cut veneer appearance with broad, soft cathedral patterns and occasional small pith flecks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown, while sapwood is a pale white to yellowish-tan. This sample shows a medium honey-gold hue consistent with aged or clear-coated sapwood, possessing a uniform semi-luster.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Perishable to Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture/elements.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, plywood veneers, turned objects, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Canada and the Great Lakes region of the United States).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for select grade lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
5-15 years based on the modern uniform texture and light golden patina of the surface finish.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can exhibit tearout during surfacing if the grain is curly. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Close-grained and very similar in appearance to Maple but typically with a more reddish-gold undertone; lacks a distinct odor.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the light color, while oil-based finishes enhance the golden warmth. Takes stains well but may require a sealer to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of diffuse-porous structure, small pith flecks, and the specific golden-brown hue is characteristic of Birch used in commercial cabinetry.