Knotty Alder Wood Guide 2026
Alnus rubra
Typically described as rustic domestic hardwood with knots
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 35 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States;Canada
- Common uses include Rustic cabinetry, Furniture, Paneling
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Straight grain with a uniform, smooth texture.
Workability: Works very easily with both hand and machine tools.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Stains very well and is commonly used for rustic finishes.
Color change: Minimal change, though it may darken slightly with UV exposure.
Insect resistance: Poor resistance to decay and insect attack.
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 Knotty 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 from 4 to 12 inches. | Random lengths from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths from 4 to 12 inches. | Random lengths from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths from 4 to 12 inches. | Random lengths from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths from 4 to 12 inches. | Random lengths from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 6 to 12 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 6 to 12 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 6 to 12 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths from 4 to 12 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 6 to 12 feet.
Availability notes: Widely available in the domestic market for cabinetry.
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; knots and defects
Grain: Straight; even texture
Common Uses
- Rustic cabinetry
- Furniture
- Paneling
- Doors
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Knotty Red Alder;Rustic 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 Knotty Alder is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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