Wood Types

Alder
Alder, a relative of birch, grows from Alaska to Southern California. It ranks third behind oak and pine as the wood most commonly used for ready-to finish furniture.

Color: Very consistent in color - pale pinkish-brown to almost white.

Grain: No distinct grain pattern.

Characteristics: Good working properties, moderately lightweight, low shock resistance.

Finishing: Finishes smoothly and takes stain uniformly. Alder is a closed pore wood and requires minimal sanding. It may be finished to look like cherry, maple, walnut and other hardwoods.