Red Alder (2026)
Alnus rubra • Pacific Northwest
Hardwood
$
Red Alder is the most common hardwood in the Pacific Northwest with excellent workability.
Key Takeaways
- Red Alder has a Janka hardness of 590 lbf and density of 28 lbs/ft³.
- Common uses include Cabinetry, Furniture, Interior trim.
- Color: Pale yellow to reddish-brown.
- Low for indoor use. Requires finish.
Janka Hardness
590 lbf
Density
28 lbs/ft³
Moisture
12-15%
Fire Rating
Class C
Durability
Class C - Indoor use
Price Range
$
Color Characteristics
Pale yellow to reddish-brown
Key Characteristics
- •Soft to medium hardness
- •Fine uniform texture
- •Straight grain
- •Excellent for staining
- •Easy to work
- •Good stability
- •Accepts glue well
- •Smooth finish
Common Applications
- •Cabinetry
- •Furniture
- •Interior trim
- •Paneling
- •Veneer
- •Musical instruments
- •Turnings
- •Paint-grade millwork
Maintenance Requirements
Low for indoor use. Requires finish.
Advantages
- Very affordable
- Excellent staining
- Easy to work
- Good availability
- Takes paint well
- Fine texture
- Sustainable
- Minimal waste
Considerations
- Relatively soft
- Poor outdoor durability
- Not rot-resistant
- Limited grain interest
- Can be bland
- Regional availability
- Indoor only
- Lower strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Cabinetry, Furniture, Interior trim, Paneling, Veneer, Musical instruments, Turnings, Paint-grade millwork.
Red Alder has a Janka hardness rating of 590 lbf, making it a softer wood suitable for Cabinetry, Furniture, Interior trim.
Red Alder wood is Pale yellow to reddish-brown. Soft to medium hardness
Low for indoor use. Requires finish.
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