White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with prominent growth rings visible in the border pieces and a relatively uniform texture in the central field plank.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to medium brown tone, likely achieved through staining or aged patina on the original lighter brown to grayish-brown heartwood. Moderate luster with visible wear and surface scratches showing lighter wood underneath.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6 to $12 per board foot for finished hardwood flooring material
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 50 to 100 years old, indicated by surface wear, patina, and traditional parquet flooring style.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but high tannin content can react with iron.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, solvent-based varnishes, or penetrating oils work exceptionally well. Surface prep requires sanding out existing scratches and applying a matching dark stain if restoring.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores making it water-resistant, high tannin content, prominent medullary rays visible upon close inspection of quartersawn sections.
Notes
Mjb floor dark
