White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable with excellent resistance to rot and decay due to closed cellular structure (tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent growth rings and distinct quarter-sawn ray fleck visible on the face surface
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, contrasting with a paler sapwood; moderate natural luster that darkens slightly to a rich amber patina over time with light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with excellent resistance to rot and decay due to closed cellular structure (tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and cut (plain vs. quarter-sawn)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated recently milled to several years old based on clean edges and mild oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with strong sustainable forestry and FSC certification options
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high density; glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to cause black staining
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oils, polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac; water-based finishes help preserve the natural lighter color without excessive yellowing
Notable Features
Contains tyloses that plug the pores making it water-resistant; high tannin content which makes it reactive with steel and great for fuming
