White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a mix of flat-sawn and rift-sawn surfaces with characteristic large, open pores and prominent medullary rays visible in the end-grain joinery.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light cream to light brown. It tends to darken or amber slightly with age and UV exposure, especially when finished with oil-based products.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in its heartwood pores, making it suitable for water-tight applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, wine barrels (cooperage), trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the oxidation levels and the style of the joinery, the sample appears to be 5 to 15 years old, likely part of a modern contemporary furniture piece.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed through sustainable forestry practices (FSC certified available).
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has high shrinkage and can be prone to checking if dried too quickly. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when freshly cut. High tannin content can cause a dark blue/black stain if the wood comes into contact with iron in a moist environment.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; oil and wax finishes for a more natural look. It is important to seal the grain if a mirror-smooth finish is desired due to its open-pored nature.
Identification Confidence
High. The large vessel pores visible on the face and the specific end-grain structure of the dovetail/bridal joints are hallmarks of the Quercus genus, with the color and tight vessel structure pointing specifically to the White Oak group.