White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and open-grained with a medium to coarse texture; visible rays and distinct vertical streaks typical of flatsawn white oak.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish/olive cast; sapwood is slightly lighter. Tends to darken and become more amber with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high decay resistance and excellent rot resistance due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-contact applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, barrel making (cooperage), boat building, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (under 20 years), based on the lack of deep oxidation or historic tool marks, though the surface shows some minor handling wear.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and frequently FSC certified. Not listed in CITES appendices.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machine and hand tools. Glues and finishes well, though it can react with iron fasteners (causing staining). High shrinkage rate requires careful drying.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, slightly acidic scent when being worked; high tannin content can cause blue-black stains if it contact with iron in wet conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based stains, polyurethane, and wax. Stains evenly, though the open pores may require a filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identified by the characteristic grain structure, pore arrangement, and the specific tannic-brown coloration typical of the Quercus genus.