American Beech
Fagus grandifolia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,300 lbf (Hard)
- 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. The sample shows quarter-sawn or rift-sawn characteristics with distinct, short ray flecks visible as small dashes across the face grain.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light reddish-brown sapwood and heartwood with little visible distinction between the two. The color tends to darken slightly to a warm golden amber with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,300 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh or recently milled lumber, estimated under 5 years old based on lack of heavy patina or aging.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, tool handles, woodenware, interior millwork, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn when routed or crosscut if feed rates are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well. Pre-conditioning or sanding to a fine grit is recommended for even stain absorption.
Notable Features
Characterized by its prominent wood rays which appear as short dark dashes or flecks on flat-sawn surfaces and striking silver flecks on quarter-sawn surfaces. High shock resistance.
