Handling & safety. Typical wood-dust irritation possible; standard precautions
Properties
| Latin name | Betula pubescens |
|---|---|
| Species type | Hardwood |
| Origin | Widespread across northern and western Europe, including the UK and Ireland |
| Density | 650 kg/m³ |
| Janka hardness | 4,100 N |
| Modulus of rupture | 95 MPa |
| Elastic modulus | 12 GPa |
| Crushing strength | 50 MPa |
| Specific gravity | 0.62 |
| Porosity | Diffuse-porous |
| Movement class | Very low |
| Tangential shrinkage | 7.5% |
| Radial shrinkage | 4.8% |
| Volumetric shrinkage | 12.3% |
| T/R ratio | 1.6 |
| Durability (EN 350) | Class 5 |
| Relative cost | Budget |
Density and mechanical properties are typical values at around 12% moisture content. Shrinkage figures represent total dimensional change from fibre saturation to oven dry. Individual boards vary.
Description
Anatomy
- Porosity: Diffuse-Porous
- Vessel Arrangement: Diffuse-porous; pores in radial multiples common
- Vessel Description: Small pores; numerous and fairly uniform
- Parenchyma: Very subtle; often marginal/limited visibility
- Rays: Narrow rays; close spacing
Durability
- Durability Class: Class 5 — Perishable
Non-durable; not suitable outdoors without treatment
Odor
No characteristic odor
Uses & Availability
Common Uses
Plywood/veneer, furniture components, interior joinery, turnery, utility uses
Pricing & Availability
Common in northern Europe; often sold as birch without species separation; generally affordable to mid-priced
Conservation
- CITES Status: Unlisted
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Lookalikes & Substitutes
Silver birch (Betula pendula) and other birches; maple for similar pale look
Additional Sources
Forestry Commission species notes; European timber datasheets; woodworking references
Working the timber
Easy to work; can fuzz/tear in some areas; takes glue and finish well; stains can blotch—conditioner recommended
Finishing & gluing
Seal/condition before staining for even color; clear finishes keep it light
Generally good