Species Spotlight: Keruing and European Beech
Keruing comprised more than 40% of all tropical hardwood lumber shipped from Asia to the U.S. in the first half of 2018. This species, also known as Apitong, is indigenous to Southeast Asia, with the heaviest concentrations in Malaysia and Indonesia. Keruing's unique combination of durability and flexibility make it highly suitable for truck trailer flooring. Some also goes into decking and heavy construction.
Spotlight On: Keruing / Apitong
- Species: Dipterocarpus spp.
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Characteristics / Appearance: Heartwood is pinkish-brown to reddish-brown, with a medium to coarse texture. The grain is slightly interlocked and sometimes wavy, with a medium to coarse texture and moderate natural luster. It is easy to work with but resin build up is expected on tools when working with this wood.
- Janka Hardness Scale: 1,390 lb_f (see chart on page 57)
- Comments: Keruing first made its debut in U.S. markets for tractor trailer decking purposes and is still commonly used in this application. The wood is strong and classified as durable and has since become a desired exterior use wood. Keruing's high density means that it will retain less moisture and has very low moisture content.
European Beech is the leading temperate hardwood species imported to the U.S., including a record 30.4 million board feet in 2017. It is most widely utilized in cabinets, though not to the exclusion of furniture, millwork, and other interior furnishings. It is popular in both clear and rustic applications. Regionally, usage is higher from the Rocky Mountains westward than in the East, with consumption in the Midwest somewhere in between.
Spotlight On: European Beech
- Species: Fagus sylvatica
- Origin: Central and Western Europe / United Kingdom
- Characteristics / Appearance: Heartwood is a pale pinkish-brown cream color. It is common to steam this wood which gives it a reddish-brown tone, but can be purchased unsteamed as well. European Beech has a fine to medium texture and an even, straight-grain.
- Janka Hardness Scale: 1,450 lb_f (see chart on page 57)
- Comments: European Beech is tough enough for heavy duty uses, yet expressive and warm. Hardness, wear-resistance, strength, and excellent bending capabilities make this hardwood a mainstay for woodworkers. European Beech glues easily, stains well, and takes an excellent finish. European Beech is ideal for use in home furnishing and interior design projects. In countries throughout Europe and overseas its main areas of application are furniture, interior finishing, and floor coverings.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Keruing wood used for?+
Keruing is primarily used for truck trailer flooring due to its unique combination of durability and flexibility. It is also used in decking and heavy construction, and has been a staple for tractor trailer decking in U.S. markets.
Where does Keruing wood come from?+
Keruing, also known as Apitong, is indigenous to Southeast Asia, with the heaviest concentrations in Malaysia and Indonesia.
What is the Janka hardness of Keruing and European Beech?+
Keruing has a Janka hardness rating of 1,390 lb_f, while European Beech has a Janka hardness rating of 1,450 lb_f.
What does European Beech wood look like?+
European Beech heartwood is a pale pinkish-brown cream color with a fine to medium texture and an even, straight grain. It is commonly steamed, which gives it a reddish-brown tone, though it can also be purchased unsteamed.
What is European Beech wood used for?+
European Beech is most widely utilized in cabinets, as well as furniture, millwork, and other interior furnishings. In Europe and overseas, its main applications are furniture, interior finishing, and floor coverings.
How much European Beech is imported to the U.S.?+
European Beech is the leading temperate hardwood species imported to the U.S., with a record 30.4 million board feet imported in 2017. Usage is higher from the Rocky Mountains westward than in the East.