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Yellow Birch

Betula alleghaniensis

Also known as: Swamp Birch, Golden Birch

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Yellow Birch wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
1,260 lbf (5,605 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
710 kg/m³ (44 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.62
Type
Temperate hardwood
Grain
Generally straight
Texture
Fine and even
Durability
Non-durable, susceptible to decay and insect attack
Region
North America
Sustainability
Sustainable — Sustainable, abundant in northeastern North American forests

Overview

Yellow Birch is the strongest and hardest of the North American birches, valued for its use in flooring and furniture. Its light reddish-brown color and fine texture make it a popular choice for cabinetry and millwork. The wood is abundant in the northeastern United States and Canada.

The heartwood is light reddish-brown with pale cream sapwood. It has a fine, even texture with generally straight grain. Dried weight averages 710 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 1,260 lbf. The wood is strong and hard for a birch, with good bending strength.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Moderate

Gluing

Excellent gluing properties

Finishing

Takes stains and finishes well

Steam Bending

Good steam bending characteristics

Scent

Mild, characteristic birch scent when worked

Assessment

Strengths

  • Strong and hard
  • Good for flooring
  • Turns well
  • Takes stain well

Weaknesses

  • Low durability
  • Can warp
  • Requires treatment for outdoor use

Common Uses

Flooring · Furniture · Cabinetry · Plywood · Turnery · Interior trim