White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent growth rings and distinct broad ray flecks visible on quarter-sawn sections
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, contrasting with lighter pale-yellowish sapwood; moderate natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn figure
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern or recently milled stock, aged under 5 to 10 years based on surface oxidation and condition
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN status of Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed in North American forests
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to high density; glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to cause dark staining
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well; wipe-on finishes or water-based polyurethanes help retain the natural pale color
Notable Features
Contains closed-cell pores blocked by tyloses making it water-resistant, high tannin content which reacts chemically with steel
