White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and coarse grain with a medium to large texture. The sample shows a rift-to-flat sawn appearance with visible medullary rays and characteristic cathedral patterns in sections.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light-colored, off-white to cream. Tends to darken slightly with age and develop a more golden-brown patina.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay. Resistant to insect attack due to closed tyloses in the pores.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely kiln-dried and recently processed within the last 1-5 years, showing minimal UV patina.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. Readily available with FSC certification.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools. It responds well to steam bending. Due to its hardness and density, it can cause moderate wear on cutting edges. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'whiskey' scent when being worked. High tannin content can cause dark stains when in contact with iron and moisture. Unique tyloses in the heartwood pores make it water-resistant.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or oil-based finishes work well. It takes stains very evenly. To maintain the natural 'raw' look seen in the photo, a dead-flat water-based topcoat is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible pore structure, medullary rays, and characteristic light-brown/olive color are classic indicators of White Oak.