Birch
[Birch] – [Betula spp.] – Trade names: White birch, sand birch, bog birch, paper birch, yellow birch, sugar birch, ice birch, flame birch or burl birch
|
Origin |
Europe, Asia, North America |
|
Raw density |
approx. 0.51-0.65 g/cm³ (at 12-15 % wood moisture content) |
|
Durability class |
5 – not durable (unsuitable for outdoor areas without treatment) |
|
Radial shrinkage |
approx. 5.3 % |
|
Tangential shrinkage |
approx. 7.8 % |
|
Wood color |
yellowish white to reddish white, rarely brown tint |
|
Wood structure |
fine-pored, silky, partly decorative grain or flame structures |
|
Use |
Veneer, plywood, furniture, parquet, woodturning, instrument making, toys |
Properties of birch
Birches belong to the genus Betula and are widespread in large parts of the northern hemisphere. The common birch and the bog birch are used particularly frequently. The wood species is known for its light, homogeneous appearance and fine structure. Due to its good workability, birch is ideal for precise woodwork such as veneers, furniture or molded joints. As the wood only has a low natural durability, it is mainly recommended for indoor use.
Processing & features
Birch wood is tough, elastic and has medium strength. It is easy to cut, bend, cut or turn and enables high-quality surface treatment – from staining to high gloss. Careful drying is important dryingas the wood tends to work and crack. Decorative variants such as burl or ice birch are considered particularly valuable and are in demand in exclusive furniture and interior design, where natural structure and a noble feel play a role.
Ecological & economic significance
As typical pioneer tree species, birches stabilize sites and promote the development of other forest communities. Their rapid juvenile development makes them ecologically significant and economically interesting. Birch has a firm place in the timber industry – especially in high-quality interior fittings, in plywood panelsin furniture construction and in handicrafts. Due to its light color and fine grain, it is considered a versatile alternative to maple or beech and is increasingly used in modern design.
