White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable; very resistant to decay and insect attack due to closed cellular structure containing tyloses
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn cabinet door panels and ray fleck visible on quarter-sawn elements
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with an olive cast in the heartwood, pale yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkening slightly to a warm amber with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; very resistant to decay and insect attack due to closed cellular structure containing tyloses
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard FAS grade lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 15 years based on modern kitchen cabinetry construction and moderate patina
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status on the IUCN Red List, widely available, and sustainably harvested under various forestry certifications like FSC
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, flooring, architectural millwork, boat building, and tight cooperage
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Good overall workability; responds well to hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to hardness; glues, stains, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, conversion varnishes, and water- or oil-based polyurethanes exceptionally well; water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color
Notable Features
High tannin content which can react with iron to cause staining, closed pores (tyloses) making it water-resistant, and distinct ray fleck patterns
