White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a porous texture. Visible medullary rays indicate a rift or quarter-sawn orientation, showing characteristic 'flake' or 'fleck' figures in certain areas.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with a cooler, olive-toned cast. Sapwood is light tan to off-white. The wood tends to darken slightly to a more golden brown over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-tight applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled; light oxidation suggests the wood is likely less than 1-2 years old since being harvested and processed.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Generally good with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-boring is recommended for nails and screws to avoid splitting.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause dark staining when in contact with iron/steel and moisture. Contains tyloses that plug vascular cells.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, particularly oil-based finishes that highlight the grain. Open-pore filling is required if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the open cellular structure (vessels), distinct medullary rays, and light olive-brown hue are classic diagnostic features of North American White Oak.