I often get asked where we get our Knotty Alder from. Since we are located in northern MN, many of our customers have heard of “Tag Alder” and are well aware that these thin, shrub-like trees could never produce the size lumber required to make T&G paneling. All of our Alder comes out of the Pacific Northwest, (mainly Oregon and Washington) where the trees do get big enough for useable lumber.
Alder is considered a hardwood but is much softer than other hardwoods such as oak or hickory and will dent quite easily. Despite its somewhat soft exterior, Alder is extremely popular in kitchen cabinetry and is growing in popularity in other areas of interior millwork such as doors and trim. Knotty Alder’s coloring is even and consistent from board to board, and ranges in the brown, red and orange tone family. This palette is sure to bring warmth to any room. A fine, straight grain, also ensures that Knotty Alder will take stain very evenly and will not blotch like other woods.
Knotty Alder is also known for its stability, and does not noticeably change its size or shape with seasonal weather. This makes it an excellent choice for paneling in Northern MN and WI. Fender has been using Alder since the 1950s to make guitars because of this wood’s many appealing characteristics. Visit our showroom and see this beautiful wood up-close. We’re sure you’ll fall in love with it, just like we have.