Alder
Alnus rubra • Pacific Northwest
Domestic Hardwood
$
Red Alder is a lightweight, affordable hardwood popular for furniture, cabinetry, and millwork. It works easily, takes stain well, and is often used as a cost-effective alternative to cherry or maple.
Janka Hardness
590
Density
28 lbs/ft³
Moisture
10-12%
Fire Rating
Class C
Durability
Class C - 8-10 years
Price Range
$
Appearance
Pale pinkish-brown to light tan
Key Characteristics
- •Lightweight hardwood
- •Fine, even texture
- •Takes stain excellently
- •Minimal grain pattern
- •Easy to work with
- •Good for painted finishes
Common Applications
- •Furniture
- •Cabinetry
- •Interior trim
- •Millwork
- •Turned objects
- •Decorative veneers
Maintenance Requirements
Low maintenance for interior use. Not suitable for outdoor applications. Occasional cleaning and refinishing.
Advantages
- Very affordable hardwood
- Excellent for staining
- Easy to machine and work
- Good dimensional stability
- Widely available in Pacific Northwest
- Good cherry/maple substitute
Considerations
- Not suitable for outdoor use
- Softer than most hardwoods
- Low decay resistance
- Can dent in high-traffic areas
- Less distinctive grain than oak
- Not structurally strong