White Oak (or Red Oak)
Quercus alba (or Quercus rubra) · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable. High resistance to rot and decay (especially White Oak due to tyloses), though susceptible to certain insect attacks if untreated outdoor exposure occurs.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with visible open pore structure and prominent ray flecks characteristic of rift-sawn or straight-cut oak.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium tan/brown hue with yellow-golden undertones. Sapwood is typically slightly lighter tan than the heartwood. Tends to darken slightly over time with exposure to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. High resistance to rot and decay (especially White Oak due to tyloses), though susceptible to certain insect attacks if untreated outdoor exposure occurs.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade, cut (rift/quarter-sawn), and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern processing (estimated 1 to 10 years old), clean finished condition with minimal wear or oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Least Concern, non-CITES listed. Widely available from sustainably managed forests and FSC-certified suppliers.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, fine furniture, architectural millwork, interior doors, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good workability with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-boring recommended for fasteners to prevent splitting. Moderate blade dulling effect.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes exceptionally well. Polyurethane, wipe-on oil finishes, lacquer, or hardwax oils work excellently. Grain filler can be used prior to finishing if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Notable Features
Distinct open pore structure, high tannin content (can react and turn dark blue/black in contact with iron and moisture), strong acoustic and structural properties.
