Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight or slightly wavy with a fine, even texture. The image shows a flat-sawn orientation with a distinct cathedral crown pattern and a uniform, diffuse-porous surface structure.
Color Description
Light reddish-brown heartwood with nearly white to pale yellow sapwood. This sample shows the typical pale, creamy tones of birch with a low natural luster and uniform color distribution.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Perishable; non-durable to slightly durable regarding decay resistance. Susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, plywood veneers, flooring, doors, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern Canada and the Northeastern United States).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for 4/4 select grade lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young or recently processed, evidenced by the light color with minimal oxidation (patina) and smooth, modern factory-sanded surface.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can exhibit some tearout during planing if grain is figured. Glues, finishes, and turns well.
Notable Features
Essentially odorless. High shock resistance and good crushing strength. It is often used as a more economical substitute for Maple due to similar appearance and density.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though a pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotchiness. Polyurethane, lacquer, or oils are all effective.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the fine diffuse-porous grain, light creamy color, and specific cathedral pattern is characteristic of commercial grade Birch plywood or solid stock.