White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight-grained with a medium to coarse texture; visible cathedral grain on flat-sawn surfaces and prominent medullary rays.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast; sapwood is near-white to light brown. Develops an amber/honey patina with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood pores, making it suitable for water-tight applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern stock, likely kiln-dried and processed within the last 1-5 years based on low oxidation and machine-planed surface.
Sustainability Status
Abundant and sustainable; classified as Least Concern by the IUCN; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Works well with hand and machine tools, though it has high shrinkage. Responds well to steam bending; gluability is good; pre-drilling is recommended.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut; contains high tannin levels which can react with iron to cause black staining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well; oil-based polyurethane or reactive finishes highlight the grain effectively.
Identification Confidence
High; the open-pored cathedral grain, characteristic light-tan color with an olive undertone, and visible medullary rays are definitive for Quercus alba.