White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain. The sample shows a rift-sawn to quarter-sawn orientation, evidenced by the tight, parallel vertical grain lines. Large pores are visible in the earlywood.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is a light off-white to cream color. This sample shows typical 'wheat' coloring with some dark iron staining or water damage on the edges.
Hardness Rating
1,350 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses which plug the pores. Frequently used for outdoor applications and boat building.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern stock, likely processed within the last 5-10 years. Surface shows minor oxidation and rough mill marks indicating it is in a raw, pre-finished state.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable. Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has a moderately high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Reacts with iron (especially when wet) and can cause dark staining.
Notable Features
Tyloses in the pores make it waterproof (unlike Red Oak). It has a distinct, somewhat acidic scent when being worked. High tannin content can react with steel fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane, oil-based varnishes, or hardwax oils are recommended to highlight the grain. Requires grain filler if a perfectly smooth mirror finish is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible large pores, characteristic light brown/olive color, and the specific rift-sawn grain pattern are definitive hallmarks of White Oak.