European Steamed Beech
General Info and Benefits
European Beech - fagus sylvatica
Note: Due to material shortages in the industry, Beech materials are subject to availability.
General Description
• The sapwood is white with a red tinge
• The heartwood is light to dark reddish brown
• Generally straight-grained with a close uniform texture
Physical Properties
• Heavy, hard, and strong
• High in resistance to shock and highly suitable for steam bending
• Janka Rating System = 1300 (higher Janka rating = harder wood)
Where It Grows
• Western, Central and Southern Europe, Northern Spain, Southeastern England, Denmark, Southern Sweden, Western Poland, the mountains of Romania, the Balkan Peninsula, Italy, and Corsica
• Average tree height is 160 ft. and 10 ft. dia.
• More typically 80–115 ft. tall and up to 5 ft. dia.
Relative Abundance
• About 10% or the total forest area of Europe
• Widespread and sustainable
Did You Know?
• Was used to make snuff boxes as well as mortars and pestles
• Well suited for food and liquid containers
• Has no odor or taste
Note: Due to material shortages in the industry, Beech materials are subject to availability.
General Description
• The sapwood is white with a red tinge
• The heartwood is light to dark reddish brown
• Generally straight-grained with a close uniform texture
Physical Properties
• Heavy, hard, and strong
• High in resistance to shock and highly suitable for steam bending
• Janka Rating System = 1300 (higher Janka rating = harder wood)
Where It Grows
• Western, Central and Southern Europe, Northern Spain, Southeastern England, Denmark, Southern Sweden, Western Poland, the mountains of Romania, the Balkan Peninsula, Italy, and Corsica
• Average tree height is 160 ft. and 10 ft. dia.
• More typically 80–115 ft. tall and up to 5 ft. dia.
Relative Abundance
• About 10% or the total forest area of Europe
• Widespread and sustainable
Did You Know?
• Was used to make snuff boxes as well as mortars and pestles
• Well suited for food and liquid containers
• Has no odor or taste
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European Steamed BeechEuropean Steamed Beech features a relatively straight and even appearance, though it may contain chevron patterned grain. Due to the steaming process this material goes through, the color is fairly consistent in tone, ranging from tan to reddish brown. It is thought to be similar in appearance to Alder, except for the small flecks in the grain. -
Plain Sliced European BeechFeaturing an even color and grain structure, Plain Sliced European Steamed Beech has a reduced allowance for natural defects like knots, though some mineral streaks may be visible on the face. This material will still posses "fleck" that is normally seen in European Steamed Beech.