Birch

Birch flooring emerges as a popular choice, celebrated for its rich history, diverse species, and remarkable benefits. Originating from the Lake State, the Northeast, and the Appalachian Mountains, birch trees have played integral roles in Native American traditions and various applications, from building materials to cradles and flooring. Birch wood, with its distinct sapwood and heartwood color contrast, offers unique aesthetics, making it a standout in the hardwood spectrum. Yellow birch, the most commonly used species for hardwood flooring, boasts a Janka rating of 1260, ensuring durability in high-traffic areas. Other sub-species, such as sweet birch, paper birch, and flamed or curly birch, present additional options, each with its characteristics and graining patterns. Birch’s advantages include its exceptional durability, captivating beauty with tight grains, workability for various installation methods, low maintenance requirements, and eco-friendly attributes. With a growth rate that makes it an ideal pioneer species, birch stands out as a distinctive and environmentally conscious choice for homeowners seeking a flooring alternative beyond the conventional options of oak and maple.