Clear Alder
Color Range
It typically ranges from light tan to pale reddish-brown, with very little distinction between the heartwood and sapwood.
Grain
Unlike the rustic look of knotty alder, the clear grade offers a consistent, clean surface with few to no visible knots, mineral streaks, or burls.
Texture
It is a closed-grain wood with a fine, uniform texture that feels naturally smooth to the touch, similar to maple or birch.
Other Names
Other names here.
Typical Uses
Premium Cabinetry: Used for high-end kitchen and bath cabinets, particularly in modern, transitional, or formal designs where a smooth, consistent look is required. Fine Furniture: A cost-effective alternative for furniture legs, frames, and detailed carvings. Millwork and Doors: Frequently used for interior doors, moldings, and paneling due to its stability and elegant finish. Musical Instruments: Notably used for the bodies of high-quality electric guitars due to its balanced acoustic properties.
Weight
2.33
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lbs /Bd. Ft. | -34.92% lighter than red oak (3.58 /bd. ft.)
Hardness
590
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Janka Rating | -54.26% softer than red oak (1290 psi)
Density
0.41
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Specific Gravity | -35.94% less dense than red oak (.64)
Strength, Stability, and Durability
Clear alder is notably stable once dried, resisting warping and shifting more effectively than many other species.
Workability / Finishing
The "Chameleon" Wood: Clear alder is most famous for its finishing versatility; it accepts stains exceptionally evenly, allowing it to accurately imitate premium woods like cherry, walnut, or mahogany. Ease of Use: It is highly favored by woodworkers because it machines, sands, and shapes easily with both power and hand tools. Paint Grade: Because of its smooth, uniform surface and lack of deep pores, it is an excellent candidate for painted finishes.