White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in its pores, which make the wood nearly liquid-tight and highly resistant to moisture-borne fungus.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and prominent large, open pores characteristics of the ring-porous structure. Includes a tight knot and some minor wavy figure near the limb junction.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter in color, creating a subtle contrast. It tends to darken or acquire a more golden hue over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in its pores, which make the wood nearly liquid-tight and highly resistant to moisture-borne fungus.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, likely kiln-dried and harvested within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of deep oxidation/patina and the crispness of the mechanical surfacing marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Sustainable. Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, wine barrels (cooperage), trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has a moderate shrinkage rate but is dimensionally stable once dry. Prone to reacting with iron-based fasteners (staining) due to high tannin content. Gluing and finishing characteristics are excellent.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts most finishes well. Penetrating oils (like Linseed or Tung oil) highlight grain, while polyurethane or lacquer provides durable protection. Water-based finishes work well but may require a sealer to prevent tannin pull.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause 'iron gall' staining (blue-black) if it contacts wet iron. Pores are plugged with tyloses, unlike Red Oak, making it suitable for water-tight applications.
