White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse-textured with prominent rays; the image shows a flat-sawn or riven face with wide, undulating growth rings and some cathedral patterns near the bottom.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter. This sample shows typical oxidation (darkening) from light exposure and surface weathering.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-resistant applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels for wine and spirits), and outdoor construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be from a mature tree (likely 50-80 years old based on ring density) and has been felled/seasoned for 1-3 years based on surface oxidation and check marks.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested sustainably throughout its range; FSC certified sources are common.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools, though it has moderate shrinkage. Responds well to steam bending. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) if wet.
Notable Features
Features tyloses which plug the vessels making it waterproof; distinct tannic odor when worked; high tannin content can cause corrosion in unprotected fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Stains and finishes well. Recommend oil-based polyurethane or penetrating oils like Tung oil to highlight the grain. Avoid water-based finishes without a sealer to prevent tannin pull.
Identification Confidence
High; the ring-porous structure, brownish-olive hue, and the characteristic stringy texture of the split face are diagnostic of North American White Oak.