Silver Birch
Betula pendula • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight or slightly wavy with a fine, even texture. The end grain shows diffuse-porous structure with small pores and barely visible growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is a pale white to light brown, while the sapwood is almost white. There is very little distinction between the two. Exposure to light and age typically causes the wood to yellow or darken to a pale tan.
Hardness Rating
1,210 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; perishable and very susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Furniture, plywood, veneer, turned objects, crates, firewood, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Europe and Northern Asia; widely naturalized in North America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot for dimensional lumber; lower for utility or fuel grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The log appears to be from a tree approximately 20-30 years old based on the growth ring density and diameter. The cut surface shows fresh oxidation and some fungal staining, suggesting it was felled within the last 6-12 months.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. Often available as FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues and finishes well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout during planing if grain is wavy.
Notable Features
Distinctive white papery bark (visible on the exterior). The wood is odorless and has a high sap content which makes it a preferred firewood as it burns well even when relatively green.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes extremely well. Oil-based finishes will deepen the color to a golden hue, while water-based polyurethanes will maintain the natural pale appearance.
Identification Confidence
High; identified by the characteristic white, papery bark visible on the exterior edges and the pale, diffuse-porous end grain structure typical of the Betula genus.