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American Beech

Fagus grandifolia

Also known as: North American Beech, Red Beech

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

American Beech wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
1,300 lbf (5,783 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
720 kg/m³ (45 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.64
Type
Hardwood
Grain
Usually straight, sometimes slightly interlocked
Texture
Fine and even
Durability
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed
Region
North America
Sustainability
Sustainable — Generally sustainable with proper forest management

Overview

American Beech is a hard, strong native hardwood prized for its fine texture and excellent shock resistance. Widely used in furniture making and interior applications, it produces a clean, smooth finish that accepts stains well. Its combination of strength and workability makes it popular for both structural and decorative purposes.

The wood displays pale cream to light pinkish-brown coloration with little distinction between heartwood and sapwood. With a density of approximately 720 kg per cubic meter and Janka hardness of 1,300 lbf, it ranks among the harder domestic hardwoods. The fine, even texture and straight grain contribute to its workability.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Moderate - high density requires frequent sharpening of cutting edges

Gluing

Good gluing properties with standard wood adhesives

Finishing

Excellent - accepts stains and finishes beautifully, takes a lustrous polish

Steam Bending

Excellent steam bending characteristics, one of the best for curved work

Scent

Minimal odor when worked, neutral scent

Assessment

Strengths

  • Excellent shock resistance
  • Superior bending properties
  • Very strong and hard
  • Takes smooth finish
  • Good stability when properly dried

Weaknesses

  • Not suitable for outdoor use
  • Prone to insect attack
  • Difficult to dry without defects
  • Moderate movement in service
  • Challenging to work when green

Common Uses

Furniture · Flooring · Cabinetry · Turned objects · Veneer · Plywood · Woodenware · Food containers