White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures (tyloses) in the heartwood.
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Grain Pattern
Prominent cathedral grain pattern with a flat-sawn orientation, showing distinct growth rings and open pores characteristic of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a slightly grayish or yellowish cast, and lighter sapwood. The color tends to warm slightly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures (tyloses) in the heartwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively freshly milled or recently processed lumber, showing minimal patina or oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List, widely available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, boat building, and tight cooperage (barrels for aging wine and whiskey).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to cause dark staining.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide range of finishes including oil, varnish, lacquer, and polyurethane. Water-based finishes minimize yellowing, while oil-based finishes enhance the natural warm brown tones.
Notable Features
High tannin content which provides natural resistance to decay and causes reactions with iron fasteners. Contains tyloses which make the wood water-resistant.
