White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks due to closed cellular structures (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a prominent open-pore structure, featuring a mix of flat-sawn cathedral patterns and tight growth rings with a small knot.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with golden-yellow undertones and paler sapwood; moderate natural luster that darkens slightly to a rich amber patina with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks due to closed cellular structures (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber grades
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively freshly milled or recently processed within the last 1 to 3 years based on clean surfaces and minimal oxidation patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN, widely available with good forest management practices.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, cooperage (wine and whiskey barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can dull cutting edges due to its density; glues, stains, and finishes well, but prone to iron-stain reactions.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oils, water-based and oil-based polyurethanes, varnishes, and lacquers; pre-conditioning is rarely needed.
Notable Features
Contains high tannin content which reacts strongly with iron to cause black discoloration; possesses tyloses that make the wood water-resistant.
