White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse, and open-pored. The radial surface (visible on one face) shows prominent ray fleck/medullary rays typical of quarter-sawn oak, while the other face shows a tight rift-sawn appearance.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter cream to tan. Shows a subtle golden luster when freshly planed. Tends to darken and become more amber/golden-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to the presence of tyloses in its pores, making it suitable for water-tight applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/fresh stock. The light color, lack of deep oxidation or patina, and visible mill marks (fuzzy edges) suggest this is a modern lumber sample under 5 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent results with machine and hand tools. It has a moderate blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. High tannin content can cause blue-black staining if the wood comes into contact with iron in wet conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and oils very well. Polyurethane or lacquer are recommended for flooring/tabletops. Ammonia fuming is a traditional technique used to darken this species.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible large earlywood pores, prominent medullary ray flecks on the radial face, and characteristic olive-tan color are classic diagnostic features of White Oak.