White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with some cathedral patterns visible; coarse and uneven texture with medium to large pores. This sample exhibits a flat-sawn appearance.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is near-white to light brown and not always sharply demarcated from the heartwood. It tends to darken or amber slightly with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; characterized by high resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the heartwood pores which make the wood nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (tight cooperage), interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be modern, kiln-dried timber with a fresh clear finish. Based on the lack of deep oxidation or heavy patina, the wood is likely aged 1-10 years post-processing.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and frequently FSC certified. Not listed on CITES appendices.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools. It has a moderately high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability is a factor. Can react with iron (staining) if wet. Takes stains and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when being worked. High tannin content can cause dark blue/black stains if the wood comes in contact with iron in a moist environment. Tyloses in pores provide exceptional water resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Takes almost all finishes well. Oil-based finishes will enhance the golden tones, while water-based finishes will keep the wood looking lighter and more natural. Recommend a sealant to prevent tannin pull if using certain water-based products.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible pore structure, color/cast, and cathedral grain patterns are highly characteristic of North American White Oak (Quercus alba) in a flat-sawn orientation.