Grows In: Europe
Hardness: 1260

DESCRIPTION
The variations in coloring of natural birch make it a popular choice for hardwood floors in homes and businesses. It ranges in color from creamy pale white to the deep, rich tones of red birch heartwood. Several different species of birch are used in flooring products, each with its own qualities. All are hard enough to withstand the punishment of an active family, and flexible enough to be workable for parquet and strip flooring.

COLOUR RANGE
The coloUr of birch is affected by both the species of birch and the part of the tree that is used. In general, the sapwood – younger and softer, is a pale, creamy tan. The heartwood, from the center of the tree, has a deeper richer color and may be golden tan to reddish brown. Birch has a fine, even, straight grain with a uniform texture. The natural variations in color between sapwood and heartwood make the contrast between pale yellow and deep, rich red particularly striking in combination.

COLOUR CHANGE
In yellow birch (B. Alleghaniensis), sapwood is creamy yellow pale while; heartwood is light reddish brown tinged with red. In sweet birch (B.Lenta), sapwood is light colored and heartwood is dark brown tinged with red.
Ideal Use

The durability of birch makes it a good choice for living areas that see medium to high traffic, or office floors. The red tones can warm a cool space, and lend it a touch of elegant coziness. It’s the perfect accent for traditional decor, but looks equally at home in a contemporary room with earth tones or bright colors.