White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (excellent resistance to rot and decay, contains tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with noticeable ray fleck from quarter-sawn and rift-sawn boards characteristic of oak.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, pale yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkens slightly with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (excellent resistance to rot and decay, contains tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years as milled lumber or flooring in service
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (Not listed on CITES appendices, widely abundant and sustainably harvested)
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, tight cooperage (barrels), exterior construction
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but can react with iron (causing black stains) due to high tannin content; good steam bending properties.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores which make it watertight, high tannin content, distinctive ray fleck patterns when quartered.
