White Birch (Paper Birch)
Betula papyrifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture. The end grain shows small, numerous pores typical of diffuse-porous hardwoods with indistinct growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown, while sapwood is nearly white to pale yellowish-tan. It has a low natural luster and typically yellows slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
910 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; highly susceptible to decay and rot if exposed to the elements or high moisture.
Common Uses
Plywood, crates, boxes, turned objects, toothpicks, tongue depressors, firewood, and interior furniture components.
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, specifically spanning from Alaska to Newfoundland and down into the northern United States.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Typically $3.00 - $6.00 per board foot for lumber; as fuel wood, it is valued by the cord.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be a limb or small trunk section from a tree approximately 10-15 years old based on ring count, likely harvested/cut within the last 1-2 years based on checking and surface oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues and finishes well, though it can sometimes produce fuzzy surfaces if tools are not sharp due to its relatively soft nature for a hardwood.
Notable Features
Features a distinct thin papery bark (visible on adjacent pieces). The wood is light in weight, lacks a distinctive odor, and is known for its excellent burning qualities even when slightly green.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes easily. Water-based polyurethanes or clear lacquers are recommended to maintain the light, natural color and prevent excessive yellowing.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The diffuse-porous end grain, color, and the presence of characteristic white/grey papery bark on the neighboring log in the container strongly suggest a species of Birch.