White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse-textured, straight grain with large open pores. Visible tyloses in the vessels and distinctive rays typical of Quercus species. Face shows linear, porous character.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter. The sample shows significant graying and staining from oxidation and weathering. Low luster in raw state.
Hardness Rating
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses that plug the vascular system, making it nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, boat building, wine barrels, tool handles, and heavy construction.
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
Freshly milled but weathered lumber, likely stored in a workshop or industrial setting for 1-3 years based on surface oxidation and water staining.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification. Highly sustainable.
Workability
Good results with machine and hand tools. High shrinkage rate, so it is prone to movement. Reacts with iron fasteners (causing blue/black staining) due to high tannin content.
Notable Features
Strong, characteristic scent when worked. High tannin content. Unique ability to hold liquids (tight cooperage) due to tyloses in pores.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all finishes. High-quality oil-based finishes highlight the grain, but grain filler may be required if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible large pores, coloring, and fibrous surface texture are textbook characteristics of North American White Oak in a rough-sawn/split state.