Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Perishable to Non-durable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
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 & Appearance
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 (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Perishable to Non-durable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
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.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, plywood, flooring, doors, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
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.
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.
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.
