Birch

Specs

Common Names

Birch

Scientific Name

Betula spp.

Origin

North America, Europe, Asia

Appearance

Birch heartwood ranges from pale yellow to reddish-brown. It often features creamy white or light brown sapwood. The grain is typically straight, but it can also be wavy or curly. The wood has a fine to medium texture and a low natural luster.

Avg. Dried Weight

42-49 lbs/ft3 (670-780 kg/m3)

Janka Hardness

1260 lbf

Modulus of Rupture

14,500 lbf/in2 (100.0 MPa)

Elastic Modulus

1,670,000 lbf/in2 (11.52 GPa)

Crushing Strength

7,680 lbf/in2 (53.0 MPa)

Shrinkage

Radial: 4.5%, Tangential: 8.9%, Volumetric: 13.4%, T/R Ratio: 2.0

Durability

Rated as perishable, susceptible to decay and insect attacks.

Workability

Birch wood is generally easy to work with. It has good machining properties and it turns, glues, and finishes well. It responds well to steam bending. The wood may require filling for open-pored finishes to achieve a smooth surface. It can be stained, polished, and painted to achieve desired results.