White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a rift-sawn to quarter-sawn appearance. Features prominent medullary rays and large, open pores typical of the Quercus genus.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light brown to off-white. The sample shows a warm amber patina from ages of light exposure and finish oxidation.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores which make the wood nearly water-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
30-60 years. The oxidation of the finish, surface scratches, and circular water stains suggest vintage furniture use (likely mid-20th century).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools. Has a moderately high shrinkage rate so dimensional stability is a factor. Responds well to steam bending. Reacts with iron fasteners (causing blue/black staining).
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content leads to corrosion of unprotected steel fasteners. Pores are clogged with tyloses, unlike Red Oak.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for durability. For a vintage look, shellac or oil-based varnishes work best.
Identification Confidence
High. The large, ring-porous structure combined with the long medullary rays and the specific 'wheat' color visible under the finish are classic indicators of White Oak.