.png?width=140&quality=70){kind=logo}
Alder (Alnus rubra) Hardwood
Red Alder (Alnus rubra) is the most abundant commercial hardwood in the Pacific Northwest and one of the most popular choices for affordable, high-quality cabinetry. Its fine, uniform texture and cons...
Janka Hardness
590 lbf
Workability
Excellent
Color
Pale yellow-brown
Density
28 lbs/ft³
What Is Alder Wood?
Red Alder (Alnus rubra) is the most abundant commercial hardwood in the Pacific Northwest and one of the most popular choices for affordable, high-quality cabinetry. Its fine, uniform texture and consistent color make it an excellent canvas for both stained and natural finishes.
At 590 lbf Janka, Alder is a softer hardwood — but its workability is outstanding. It machines cleanly, carves well, turns beautifully on a lathe, and accepts stains so uniformly that it's frequently used to mimic cherry, maple, or walnut at a fraction of the cost.
Alder's heartwood and sapwood are nearly identical in color (pale yellowish-brown), which means less waste from color-sorting and more consistent appearance across large projects. When exposed to air, freshly cut alder develops a warm honey tone that adds character.
Key Facts
- Most affordable domestic hardwood for cabinetry
- Uniform color — heartwood and sapwood nearly identical
- Takes stain exceptionally well, can mimic cherry or walnut
- Sustainably harvested from Pacific Northwest managed forests
- Fine, even texture ideal for smooth painted or stained finishes
- Widely available in the western United States
Why Choose Alder?
Exceptional Stainability
Absorbs stain more uniformly than almost any other wood — can convincingly mimic cherry, maple, or walnut
Uniform Color
Heartwood and sapwood are nearly identical, reducing waste and creating consistent appearance
Excellent Workability
Machines, carves, and turns beautifully with minimal effort using standard tools
Budget Friendly
One of the most affordable domestic hardwoods — excellent value for large cabinet projects
Fine Texture
Smooth, even grain produces professional results for painted and clear-finished surfaces
Lightweight
Easy to handle and install, especially for overhead cabinets and built-ins
Common Applications
Alder is well-suited for a range of interior and exterior applications.
Kitchen Cabinetry
The go-to affordable wood for stained and painted kitchen cabinets
Furniture
Rustic and contemporary furniture, especially stained pieces
Interior Trim & Molding
Baseboards, crown molding, and door casings
Turnings & Carvings
Spindles, legs, and decorative carved elements
Craft & DIY Projects
Hobby woodworking, picture frames, and small projects
Painted Built-ins
Bookshelves, entertainment centers, and closet systems
Alder by Application
Learn how Alder performs across different project types.
Alder Kitchen Cabinetry
Alder is one of the most popular cabinet woods in America, especially for stained and knotty rustic styles. Its fine, uniform grain absorbs stain more evenly than almost any other species, making it ideal for achieving cherry, maple, or walnut-toned cabinets at a fraction of the cost. Alder's lightweight nature is a practical advantage for upper cabinets, and its easy machinability means cabinet shops can produce complex door profiles efficiently. Knotty alder has become the defining wood for rustic, lodge, and farmhouse-style kitchens, while clear alder provides a smooth, contemporary canvas for any stain color.
Explore all kitchen cabinetry optionsAlder Furniture & Built-ins
Alder's exceptional stainability and budget-friendly pricing make it a go-to choice for stained furniture, built-in entertainment centers, home offices, and closet systems. The wood's uniform color between heartwood and sapwood means less waste from color-sorting, keeping project costs down. Alder machines easily into turned legs, carved details, and custom profiles — it's forgiving to work with and produces professional results. For large furniture projects where a stained finish is planned, alder delivers the look of more expensive species like cherry or walnut while keeping the budget manageable.
Explore all furniture & built-ins optionsAlder Interior Trim & Millwork
Alder is an excellent choice for interior trim, molding, door casings, and baseboards — especially when a stained wood finish is desired throughout the home. Its fine texture produces smooth, professional profiles, and its uniform stain absorption ensures consistent color across all trim elements. Alder is significantly more affordable than oak or cherry for whole-house trim packages, and its light weight makes installation easier, particularly for overhead crown molding. For new construction and remodeling projects where matching stained trim, doors, and cabinets is important, alder provides seamless color consistency at an accessible price.
Explore all interior trim & millwork optionsInstallation & Working Tips
- Standard tools work perfectly — no special tooling needed
- Pre-drill near board ends to prevent splitting (soft wood)
- Sand to 220 grit for staining; 180 grit is sufficient for paint
- Use pre-stain conditioner for more even stain absorption
- Glues exceptionally well with standard wood adhesives
- Not suitable for exterior or high-moisture applications
For complete guidance, see our installation guide and custom milling services.
Maintenance & Care
Alder is an interior wood requiring standard care. Its soft surface benefits from protective clear finishes.
Finishing
Alder takes stain and clear finish beautifully. Apply pre-stain conditioner before staining for the most uniform results. Clear lacquer, polyurethane, or conversion varnish all work well for protection.
Cleaning
Dust regularly. Clean with a damp cloth and mild wood cleaner. Avoid abrasive cleaners on stained or natural-finish alder surfaces.
Important Considerations
Not for Exterior Use
Alder has poor natural decay resistance — interior use only.
Soft Surface
At 590 lbf, dents and scratches more easily than oak or maple. Best for cabinets, trim, and low-impact furniture.
Regional Availability
Most readily available in the western US. May cost more with shipping to eastern states.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alder
Quick answers to common questions
Ready to explore Alder decking?
Browse every alder decking size, profile, and grade with live pricing.