White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with prominent medullary rays and coarse texture. The end grain shows identifiable ring-porous structure with latewood pores arranged in radial rows.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light off-white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden tone and tends to darken slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it nearly waterproof.
Common Uses
Boatbuilding, wine barrels (cooperage), flooring, cabinetry, fine furniture, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the oxidation, accumulation of surface dust, and the older mechanical screw visible, the sample appears to be at least 20-40 years old, likely salvaged from architectural framing or furniture.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably harvested in North America. FSC certified options are common.
Workability
Relatively easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-boring is recommended for nails and screws to prevent splitting.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when wet. Contains high tannin content which can react with iron fasteners to create blue-black stains. Large, conspicuous medullary rays.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Surface should be sanded to 180-220 grit. Oil-based polyurethanes or penetrative oils enhance the natural figure of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible end-grain structure showing ring-porosity, the distinctive medullary rays on the face, and the grayish-brown 'olive' hue are classic indicators of the White Oak group.