Characteristics

• Beech is a medium to hard wood that features pale sapwood and darker heartwood that is closer to the center of the trunk. The wood has a fine grain. It is sturdy, shock-resistant and takes stain readily.
  
  

History

• Beechwood burns hotter than many other woods and was traditionally a preferred fuel for heating in stoves and furnaces, according to early 20th century English herbalist Maud Grieve. Ripened beech mast or fallen nuts were also used for this purpose.
  
  

Uses

• Beechwood is used for stools, chairs and other kinds of turned furniture, as well as for clothespins, brush backs, various kinds of handles and container veneer. It is relatively inexpensive in comparison to other woods and is also used to make pallets, wood flooring and railroad ties.