White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay
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Grain Pattern
Ring-porous structure with distinct growth rings, straight grain visible on the end-grain radial lines (medullary rays)
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a slight grayish or olive cast, paler sapwood, moderate natural luster, ages to a deeper amber-brown patina with UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot for standard kiln-dried lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 40 to 60 years based on ring count visibility and log diameter
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status according to the IUCN, widely available, not CITES listed
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, outdoor decking, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and timber framing
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally good workability with hand and machine tools, though it has high density and can be prone to splitting when nailing or screwing near edges; glues, stains, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oil, polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac; water-based finishes help preserve the natural lighter color
Notable Features
Contains closed cellular structures (tyloses) making it water-resistant, high tannin content which can react with iron to cause black staining
