Alder (specifically Western Red Alder)
Alnus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Coastal regions of Western North America (Pacific Northwest, from Alaska to California).
- Hardness
- 590 lbf (Soft). It is one of the softest hardwoods, making it prone to denting but very easy to mill.
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable. It has low resistance to rot and insect attack; it is intended strictly for indoor use in dry environments like kitchens.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with a fine, even texture. It often features a 'closed grain' look with subtle cathedral patterns when flat-sawn, as seen in these cabinet panels. Knotty Alder variations (like this one) include visible tight knots and small pin knots.
Color & Appearance
Natural heartwood is light tan to reddish-brown; sapwood is not clearly demarcated from heartwood. This specific sample has been stained to a mid-tone 'warm' brown. Alder is prized for its ability to mimic cherry or walnut when stained, though it lacks deep natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
590 lbf (Soft). It is one of the softest hardwoods, making it prone to denting but very easy to mill.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable. It has low resistance to rot and insect attack; it is intended strictly for indoor use in dry environments like kitchens.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.50 - $7.00 per board foot (Price varies significantly between 'Superior' clear grade and 'Rustic/Knotty' grades).
- Wood Age Estimate
- New construction (0-5 years). The clean lines of the Shaker-style panels, modern matte finish, and lack of UV-induced darkening suggest these are recently fabricated cabinets.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly Sustainable. It is a fast-growing pioneer species; widely available with FSC certification and not listed on CITES or the IUCN Red List.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior millwork, picture frames, and electric guitar bodies (noted for balanced tone).
Geographic Origin
Coastal regions of Western North America (Pacific Northwest, from Alaska to California).
Workability
Excellent. It is very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes and sands exceptionally well. However, because it is soft/porous, it can 'blotch' when staining, requiring a pre-stain conditioner (as hinted by the user's caption about testing 10+ stains).
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain wood conditioner is mandatory for a uniform look. It takes film-forming finishes like polyurethane or lacquer very well. This sample appears to have a matte or satin topcoat.
Notable Features
Often called 'the poor man's cherry' due to its grain similarity. It has no characteristic odor and a very light weight for a hardwood.
