White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable - excellent resistance to decay and moisture due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent quarter-sawn ray fleck pattern visible across the surface.
Color & Appearance
Medium light brown heartwood with a slightly grayish or olive cast, and lighter pale sapwood. Moderate natural luster with a warm golden-tan appearance.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable - excellent resistance to decay and moisture due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and cut
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50 years based on manufactured furniture finish and light patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant, sustainably harvested, and commonly available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, and cooperage.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has a moderate blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and polyurethane very well. Pre-catalyzed lacquer or conversion varnish are common for commercial furniture.
Notable Features
High tannin content which reacts with iron to cause staining; closed cellular structure makes it water-resistant.
