White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with a coarse, uneven texture. Shows characteristic cathedral figure in flat-sawn sections and prominent ray flecks when quarter-sawn.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light-colored off-white to light brown. Darkens slightly over time with ambering.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay. Highly resistant to water due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for boatbuilding.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the cleanliness of the surface and lack of significant oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and generally sustainable. Often FSC certified.
Workability
Good results with machine and hand tools. Has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) when wet.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause staining when in contact with ferrous metals. Pores are plugged with tyloses.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Best with penetrating oils to highlight grain or polyurethane for durability. Use a grain filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The prominent ring-porous structure, color, and visible medullary rays are classic indicators of North American White Oak.