Clear Alder Wood Guide 2026
Alnus rubra
Typically described as clear knot-free domestic hardwood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 35 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States;Canada
- Common uses include High-end cabinetry, Furniture, Doors
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Very uniform and smooth with a straight grain.
Workability: Excellent workability similar to softwoods.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Takes stains exceptionally well to mimic more expensive hardwoods.
Color change: Slowly turns from a light tan to a reddish-brown hue.
Insect resistance: Low resistance to insect infestation.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Clear Alder. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths are common in 4 to 8 inch sizes. | Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths are common in 4 to 8 inch sizes. | Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths are common in 4 to 8 inch sizes. | Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths are common in 4 to 8 inch sizes. | Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths are common in 4 to 8 inch sizes.
- Lengths
- Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are common in 4 to 8 inch sizes.
- Lengths
- Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are common in 4 to 8 inch sizes.
- Lengths
- Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths are common in 4 to 8 inch sizes.
- Lengths
- Random lengths ranging from 6 to 12 feet.
Availability notes: Widely available in the western and central United States.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Light tan to reddish brown; uniform
Grain: Straight; even texture
Common Uses
- High-end cabinetry
- Furniture
- Doors
- Trim
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Red Alder clear grade;Superior Alder
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 590 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States;Canada
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Clear Alder is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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