White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf, Hard
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to closed cellular structures (tyloses) in the heartwood.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a quarter-sawn to rift-sawn appearance with distinct ray fleck patterns visible along the face grain.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive or grayish cast. The sapwood is lighter, nearly white to pale yellowish-brown. Luster is medium. Darkens gradually to a deeper amber or golden brown with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf, Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to closed cellular structures (tyloses) in the heartwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade, thickness, and cut (plain vs. quarter-sawn)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 10 to 30 years old based on surface oxidation, milled texture, and lack of deep historical patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN. Readily available and frequently sustainably harvested in North America, with FSC-certified options common.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels for aging wine and whiskey), and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges fairly quickly due to silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron (turns black in the presence of moisture and iron).
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes exceptionally well. Water-based or oil-based polyurethane, Danish oil, or lacquer provide durable protection while highlighting the natural grain and ray fleck.
Notable Features
Contains high levels of tannins which make it exceptionally resistant to moisture and decay. The wood contains tyloses that plug the pores, making it watertight (hence its traditional use in shipbuilding and barrel making).
