White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and coarse grain with a flat-sawn or rift-sawn appearance. Features prominent rays and open pores typical of the Quercus genus. Large cathedral grain is visible towards the top of the sample.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter. This sample shows a classic straw-to-bisque color typical of kiln-dried white oak. It will darken slightly to a warmer amber hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood which plug the pores. Often used in water-tight applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/modern stock (less than 2 years old) based on the bright color, lack of oxidation patina, and fresh rough-sawn edges.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably managed. Frequently available with FSC certification. Not CITES listed.
Workability
Generally good with machine and hand tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-boring is recommended for nails and screws to prevent splitting. High tannin content can cause staining when in contact with iron.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, slightly acidic scent when being worked. High tannin content makes it suitable for fuming with ammonia to darken the color. Excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well including oils, polyurethane, and lacquer. Highly recommended to use a sealer if using water-based finishes to prevent tannin pull/staining.
Identification Confidence
High; the ring-porous structure, color, grain texture, and visible medullary rays are characteristic of the White Oak group vs Red Oak.