Beech

Specs

Common Names

Beech

Scientific Name

Fagus spp.

Origin

Europe, North America, Asia

Appearance

Beech heartwood ranges from pale cream to light brown. It often features pink or reddish-brown hues. The grain is usually straight, but it can also be wavy or interlocked. The wood has a fine to medium texture and a low natural luster.

Avg. Dried Weight

45-55 lbs/ft3 (720-880 kg/m3)

Janka Hardness

1300 lbf

Modulus of Rupture

14,500 lbf/in2 (100.0 MPa)

Elastic Modulus

1,830,000 lbf/in2 (12.62 GPa)

Crushing Strength

7,910 lbf/in2 (54.6 MPa)

Shrinkage

Radial: 4.8%, Tangential: 9.6%, Volumetric: 14.4%, T/R Ratio: 2.0

Durability

Rated as perishable, susceptible to decay and insect attacks.

Workability

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