Likely white oak; possibly another oak such as red oak, though the pale color and grain suggest white oak.
Quercus alba (tentative) · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America; white oak grows broadly across the eastern United States and parts of southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf — Hard
- Durability
- Durable; white oak heartwood resists decay and insects relatively well, though this cannot be confirmed from the photo.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, coarse open grain with prominent cathedral figure from flat-sawn sections; some irregular swirling near the end. No clear quarter-sawn ray fleck is visible.
Color & Appearance
Pale straw to light tan, likely unfinished heartwood; sapwood is not clearly distinguishable. Oak typically darkens and warms with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf — Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; white oak heartwood resists decay and insects relatively well, though this cannot be confirmed from the photo.
Value & Age
Roughly US$6–12 per board foot for typical kiln-dried white oak; grade, thickness, and location affect price.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Not reliably estimable from this clean, apparently unfinished board; visible wear or patina is minimal.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, interior joinery, barrels, and boatbuilding.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America; white oak grows broadly across the eastern United States and parts of southeastern Canada.
Workability
Machines and finishes well, but its open grain can splinter or tear out; predrilling helps with fasteners. Use sharp cutters and fill pores if a smooth finish is desired.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly, optionally fill the pores, then apply oil, hardwax oil, lacquer, or polyurethane; test stain first for evenness.
Notable Features
Distinctive open pores and strong cathedral figure; white oak is notably moisture-resistant compared with many common domestic hardwoods.
