Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Perishable to Slightly Durable; generally poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with a fine, uniform texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn or rotary-cut appearance typical of commercial paneling/veneer with very subtle growth ring definition.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown, while the sapwood is a pale white to yellow. This sample shows a medium amber-yellow patina common in aged birch surfaces that have been finished with oil-based products.
Hardness (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Perishable to Slightly Durable; generally poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- 20-40 years, based on the yellowing of the finish (likely an aged lacquer or varnish) and the rounded, worn edges of the board.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, plywood/veneers, flooring, interior trim, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn during high-speed routing; glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping varnish or polyurethane. If staining, use a pre-stain conditioner to prevent blotching.
Notable Features
Virtually odorless. It is known for its high shock resistance but can be difficult to stain evenly without a wood conditioner due to its closed-pore structure.
