Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America (Eastern Canada and Northeastern United States).
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with a subtle cathedral pattern; fine, uniform texture with closed pores. Some curly figure is possible but not clearly evident in this sample.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with nearly white sapwood. The sample shows a pale, yellowish-tan hue with low luster and a slight golden patina typical of aged birch.
Hardness (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 - $8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and regional availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10-20 years old based on the oxidation level and surface wear patterns.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, doors, flooring, plywood/veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern Canada and Northeastern United States).
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn during high-speed routing. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to most finishes. Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for durability, though it can be prone to blotching when stained; a washcoat of shellac is recommended before staining.
Notable Features
Distinguished by its heavy weight and high shock resistance. Lacks a distinctive odor. It is known to be one of the most important hardwoods for distillation of wood alcohol.
