Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight or slightly wavy with a fine, even texture. Shows closed pores and subtle, diffuse-porous cathedral patterns in flat-sawn sections.
Color Description
Heartwood is light reddish-brown, while sapwood is nearly white to pale yellow. This sample shows significant ambering from an aged finish; the wood naturally darkens slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Perishable to Non-durable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, plywood, flooring, doors, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade.
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years based on the heavy oxidation of the surface finish and the specific type of wear/small dings visible in the patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can cause plane tearout if the grain is curly or figured. Glues and finishes well but may blotch when staining.
Notable Features
Essentially odorless. Known for its uniform texture and high shock resistance. The wood is often stained to mimic more expensive species like Cherry or Mahogany.
Finish Recommendations
A gel stain or sanding sealer is recommended to prevent blotching. Polyurethane or lacquer are common for the durable protection required on cabinetry and furniture.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the closed grain, diffused-porous structure, and specific reddish-gold hue under an aged finish are classic indicators of Birch used in mid-to-late 20th-century cabinetry.