Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and southeastern Canada
- Hardness
- 1260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and susceptibility to insect attack as evidenced by the insect bore holes present in the sample
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture and flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with wide, nearly white to creamy yellow sapwood; moderate natural luster that darkens slightly to a warm golden tone with age
Hardness (Janka)
1260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and susceptibility to insect attack as evidenced by the insect bore holes present in the sample
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber grades
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated at 30 to 50 years old based on surface oxidation, drying characteristics, and weathering
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN, widely available with good forest management practices
Common Uses
Furniture, interior cabinetry, flooring, veneer, plywood, interior millwork, boxes, and turned objects
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and southeastern Canada
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though figured sections can tear out during planing; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains very uniformly, and takes oil, lacquer, shellac, and polyurethane exceptionally well after proper sanding
Notable Features
Heavy and strong for a temperate hardwood, featuring distinct small circular insect bore holes which indicate past powderpost beetle or wood-boring insect activity
