White Oak (Quarter-sawn with Ray Fleck)
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. High rot and decay resistance due to tyloses in the pores; often used for boatbuilding and tight cooperage.
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Grain Pattern
Quarter-sawn with prominent medullary rays (ray fleck) and curly/irregular figure. Grain is straight to wavy with a coarse texture and open pores.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; sapwood is off-white to light brown. The medullary rays show as a lighter, silvery-tan flake figure. Darkens to a more amber hue over time.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. High rot and decay resistance due to tyloses in the pores; often used for boatbuilding and tight cooperage.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $12.00 per board foot for premium quarter-sawn figured stock.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently sanded stock. The lack of significant patina and the presence of machining marks suggests the sample is relatively new.
- Sustainability Status
- Sustainable. Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent results with machine and hand tools. High shrinkage makes it prone to movement. Requires pre-drilling. Generally glues and stains well.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes enhance the fleck figure. Polyurethane or lacquer are excellent for durability. Responds well to fuming with ammonia for a classic Mission-style look.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. High tannin content can cause dark stains if it comes into contact with iron in wet conditions.
