White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight-grained with coarse texture. Shows cathedral figure on flat-sawn surfaces with prominent medullary rays and tyloses in pores.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast. Sapwood is near-white to light brown. Darkens slightly with age to a deep amber.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses that plug vessel cells, making it water-resistant.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, wine barrels, trim, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced (under 1 year) based on bright coloration and lack of significant oxidation patina.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable. Not CITES listed and classified on the IUCN Red List as Least Concern. Readily available as FSC certified.
Workability
Works well with machine and hand tools. Has high shrinkage, so seasoning is critical. Good for steam bending. Reacts with iron (blue-black stains).
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. High tannin content. Unique ability to hold liquids (non-porous grain) makes it the standard for cooperage.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Oil-based polyurethanes highlight the grain. Avoid iron-based fillers; use water-based or shellac for sealing.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive porous structure, color palette, and coarse ring-porous grain pattern visible in the rough-cut sample are characteristic of Quercus species.