Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; highly susceptible to rot and insect attack if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform but can be wavy or curly. This sample shows a fine-textured, straight grain consistent with flat-sawn utility boards.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown, with sapwood being a pale yellow or white. The sample shows a warm yellow-brown patina with darker blotches likely caused by liquid staining and degradation of the clear topcoat.
Hardness (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; highly susceptible to rot and insect attack if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 30-50 years. The deep yellowing of the lacquer, the wear patterns on the edges, and the specific style of wood plugs/screws suggest mid-to-late 20th-century construction.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, veneer, and turned objects. Often used for industrial applications like tool handles and crates due to its toughness.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
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, though it can exhibit blotchiness when stained.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for durability. If refinishing, a sanding sealer is suggested to prevent the blotchy absorption of pigments shown in the current sample.
Notable Features
Virtually odorless. Known for being a very heavy and strong wood for its class, often used as a more cost-effective substitute for Maple.
