White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Features prominent, elongated rays (medullary rays) and large, open pores typical of the ring-porous structure found in oak. This sample displays a flat-sawn cathedral-like pattern.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter than the heartwood, which can range from beige to brown. It typically darkens slightly with age to a more golden or amber tone with exposure to light.
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, which makes it nearly water-tight. Good resistance to insect attack.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, boatbuilding, barrels (tight cooperage), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/New. Based on the lack of oxidation, absence of deep patina, and the clean machine-surface finish, this appears to be a recently milled kiln-dried sample.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally abundant and widely available with FSC certification readily accessible.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue if not dried properly. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) when wet due to high tannin content. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'oak' scent when being worked; high tannin content; large medullary rays visible on quarter-sawn surfaces; pores are plugged with tyloses, unlike Red Oak.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, oil, or lacquer all work well. For a modern look, a clear water-based finish prevents yellowing. High-tannin content makes it an excellent candidate for fuming with ammonia or using reactive stains.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible large open pores, color with olive undertones, and the presence of prominent ray fleck indicators are classic diagnostic features of North American White Oak.