White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible in the center; large, prominent rays that are longer than those found in Red Oak.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is near-white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden tone and darkens slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; specifically known for its excellent rot and decay resistance due to tyloses in the pores which make the wood water-resistant.
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 grade and widening width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern stock (roughly 0-10 years) based on the lack of deep oxidation, absence of nail holes or circular saw marks common in reclaimed timber, and clean surface.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can react with iron fasteners causing blue/black staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause dark stains if in contact with water and iron. Extremely strong and rot-resistant.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes beautifully. Penetrating oils (tung or linseed) highlight grain; polyurethane provides excellent durability for flooring/tabletops.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible large open pores, 'cathedral' flat-sawn grain arc, and the characteristic grey-brown olive hue are diagnostic for White Oak.