White Oak (Stained/Fumed Dark)
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with prominent medullary rays and large, open pores typical of flat-sawn oak. Displays a visible cathedral pattern at the top of the image.
Color Description
Heartwood is naturally light to medium brown, but this sample is stained a deep espresso or dark chocolate brown. Sapwood would be lighter but is obscured by finish. It exhibits a low luster with visible white pore filling in some areas.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores; often used for water-tight applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, barrel making (cooperage), boat building, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (standard grade)
Wood Age Estimate
The surface exhibits moderate oxidation and physical wear marks (scratches), suggesting the furniture/sample is between 10-30 years old.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and generally sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Commonly works well with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds exceptionally well to steam bending and takes stains/finishes very well despite its density.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when cut; high tannin content allows for 'fuming' with ammonia to darken the wood naturally; open-pored texture.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; oil-based finishes enhance the deep grain. Hardwax oils are also popular for this texture.
Identification Confidence
High; the large, open vessel pores and distinctive cathedral grain pattern are classic diagnostic features of the Quercus genus, specifically White Oak given the grain density.