White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy; flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral patterns with characteristic large rays and coarse texture
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is light off-white to cream. It develops a richer amber patina with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores that make the wood water-resistant
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), interior trim, and heavy construction
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern rough-cut lumber; showing minimal oxidation or UV graying, likely less than 2-3 years since milling
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; widely available and not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Workability
Commonly easy to work with machines; however, can have high shrinkage and requires pre-boring for nails and screws. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when wet; contains high levels of tannic acid which can react with iron to cause blue-black stains; contains tyloses in pores.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well; oil-based polyurethanes or reactive oils are recommended to highlight the depth of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible large rays, coarse texture, and distinct olive-brown hue are hallmark characteristics of the White Oak group.