White Oak — Quercus alba

White Oak

Quercus alba · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America
Hardness
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability
Very Durable (resistant to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structure containing tyloses)

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Grain Pattern

Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture and prominent ring-porous structure.

Color & Appearance

Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, and paler whitish-to-yellowish sapwood. Darkens slightly to a warm amber with age and UV exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1350 lbf (Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable (resistant to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structure containing tyloses)

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawing.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Estimated to be relatively recent (less than 10-20 years old) based on surface texture and lack of heavy oxidation.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and veneer.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has high shrinkage and can react with iron fasteners causing dark stains.

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains, dyes, oils, and varnishes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing.

Notable Features

Contains tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it water-resistant; high tannin content causes black discoloration when exposed to iron in the presence of moisture.

Learn more about White Oak in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 19, 2026