Beech (European or American)
Fagus sylvatica / Fagus grandifolia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Temperate regions of Europe and Eastern North America.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture and prominent flecking from broad wood rays visible on quartered surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light pinkish-brown heartwood with little visible distinction between heartwood and sapwood. Darkens slightly to a golden-brown or amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, approximately $3.00 to $5.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be decades old based on surface wear patterns, patina, and oxidation on the turned handle.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally considered stable and of least concern on the IUCN Red List; widely available from sustainably managed forests.
Common Uses
Tool handles, furniture, turnings, flooring, plywood, and woodworking planes.
Geographic Origin
Temperate regions of Europe and Eastern North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, turns and glues well, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well; oil finishes or polyurethane work exceptionally well to highlight the natural grain.
Notable Features
High shock resistance, excellent steam-bending properties, and distinct ray fleck patterns when quarter-sawn.
