Paper Birch
Betula papyrifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northern North America, spanning across Canada and the northern United States.
- Hardness
- 910 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown, and the sapwood is nearly white with very little visible difference between the two. Luster is low to medium.
Hardness (Janka)
910 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot for domestic lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut to recently harvested (less than a year old), evidenced by the intact, peeling papery bark and fresh exposed wood.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally abundant and sustainable.
Common Uses
Pulpwood, plywood, cabinetry, interior furniture, turnings, toothpicks, ice cream sticks, and firewood.
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, spanning across Canada and the northern United States.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well. Clear coats like lacquer, varnish, or polyurethane are commonly used to preserve the light color.
Notable Features
Distinguished by its thin, white, papery bark that peels off in horizontal strips. Contains no characteristic odor.
