Paper Birch
Betula papyrifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northern North America, across Canada and the northern United States
- Hardness
- 910 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown, and the sapwood is a wide band of creamy white with moderate natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
910 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot for lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut or recently harvested sample, less than a year old
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List; widely abundant and sustainably harvested
Common Uses
Plywood, turnings, cabinetry, interior furniture, woodenware, pulpwood, and novelty items
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, across Canada and the northern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and finishes exceptionally well; sanding sealer followed by lacquer, varnish, or polyurethane produces a smooth, professional result
Notable Features
Features characteristic papery bark and relatively light weight, with fine, even pores visible under magnification
