Alder

Specs

Common Names

Alder

Scientific Name

Alnus spp.

Origin

North America, Europe

Appearance

Alder heartwood ranges from light tan to reddish-brown. It has a straight grain pattern with a fine to medium texture. The wood has a low to moderate natural luster.

Avg. Dried Weight

28-38 lbs/ft3 (450-610 kg/m3)

Janka Hardness

590 lbf

Modulus of Rupture

7,900 lbf/in2 (54.5 MPa)

Elastic Modulus

1,160,000 lbf/in2 (8.00 GPa)

Crushing Strength

4,740 lbf/in2 (32.7 MPa)

Shrinkage

Radial: 4.2%, Tangential: 8.8%, Volumetric: 13.2%, T/R Ratio: 2.1

Durability

Rated as perishable, susceptible to decay and insect attacks.

Workability

Alder wood is relatively easy to work with. It machines well and has good dimensional stability. It holds nails and screws satisfactorily, and it glues and stains well. It finishes smoothly, and it accepts a variety of finishes.