Red alder is the most plentiful hardwood on bc s coast.
Is red alder a hardwood.
Alder red alder western red alder pacific coast alder alnus rubra.
While there are many species of alder throughout the world the most commonly used in woodworking today is the red alder.
Alder is typified by its consistent color ranging from white to a light rosy brown.
Some typical uses rustic furniture entry doors moldings turning carving toys plywood veneer cabinets musical instruments.
You can find red alder wood in two kinds.
Light tan to reddish brown.
Alder is a north american hardwood usually found in the pacific northwest generally between california and alaska.
Today it is known to be among the softest type of hardwood so its position as a hardwood is undeniable.
The medium sized broadleaf tree grows up to 24 metres and has a life span of 40 to 60 years.
As red oak is the most commonly used hardwood in north america.
It is also visually similar to utility woods like aspen and poplar.
Alder wood works great for laser cutting and engraving and produces and nice dark burn.
Alder is a relatively soft hardwood of medium density that has low bending strength shock resistance and stiffness.
Red alder western hemlock and bigleaf maple forest with a current inventory of about 7 4 billion cubic feet red alder comprises 60 percent of the total hardwood volume in the pacific northwest and is by far the most valuable hardwood in term of diversity of products commercial value and manufacturing employment.
Alder oregon alder pacific coast alder red alder western alder.
It is easy to work with and cuts sands glues and finishes well.
On the other hand knotty red alder is an inexpensive choice which is commonly employed for domestic construction.
Why does it matter to you.
True there are many species of this kind of wood all over the world but the one that s chiefly used in woodworking remains the red alder.
Color darkens and reddens with age.
Alder is currently used for a variety of specialty interior products including furniture cabinets floors and doors.
European alder alnus glutinosa nepalese alder alnus nepalensis.
Clear red alder and knotty red alder.
Its wood is moderately dense and uniformed textured and it is an important species for many specialty products.
What is alder wood.
Red alder is the most abundant hardwood in the pacific northwest region of the united states and is a commercially important lumber.
Clear red alder tends to be pricier as compared to the knotty one.