Beech
Fagus sylvatica / Fagus grandifolia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Europe (F. sylvatica) or Eastern North America (F. grandifolia)
- Hardness
- 1300 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable/Perishable; susceptible to rot and insect attack if exposed to moisture, though excellent indoor stability.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, even texture; the end grain shows characteristic small rays which appear as dark flecks on radial surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light reddish-brown heartwood with thin whitish sapwood. Typically deepens to a golden tan over time, especially with exposure to light or if steam-treated.
Hardness (Janka)
1300 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable/Perishable; susceptible to rot and insect attack if exposed to moisture, though excellent indoor stability.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $8.50 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- The surface oxidation and mechanical wear suggest a vintage piece, likely 30-50 years old, used in a domestic environment.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices; generally categorized as Least Concern by the IUCN; widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, tool handles, cooking utensils (spoons/bowls), and turned objects like the leg shown.
Geographic Origin
Europe (F. sylvatica) or Eastern North America (F. grandifolia)
Workability
Excellent for machining and wood turning. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can provide some resistance to hand tools due to its density.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the grain flecks; polyurethane or lacquer provide durability for furniture items.
Notable Features
Essentially odorless. High susceptibility to movement in response to humidity changes. Excellent for food-contact items as it has no odor or taste contamination.
