Most likely White Oak; alternatives include Red Oak or quartersawn European Oak — Quercus alba

Most likely White Oak; alternatives include Red Oak or quartersawn European Oak

Quercus alba · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the eastern United States.
Hardness
1,360 lbf Janka — Hard
Durability
Durable; good natural resistance to decay, with better moisture resistance than Red Oak, though not immune to prolonged weather exposure.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Straight, open grain with prominent medullary-ray fleck and strong quartersawn ray figure; the image appears to show quartersawn/rift-sawn stock.

Color & Appearance

Pale beige to light brown heartwood with lighter sapwood, subdued luster, and visible ray fleck. It typically ambers modestly with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

1,360 lbf Janka — Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable; good natural resistance to decay, with better moisture resistance than Red Oak, though not immune to prolonged weather exposure.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $6–$14 per board foot for clear quartersawn White Oak; figured or premium stock may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Not reliably determinable from this clean, apparently finished surface; no clear patina or wear indicators are visible.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, architectural millwork, barrels, veneer, interior joinery, and boatbuilding.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the eastern United States.

Workability

Machines and sands well but can show tearout around ray figure; predrilling is advisable, and tannins may react with iron fasteners or finishes.

Finish Recommendations

Use a clear oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; water-pop or a light washcoat can even absorption, while dewaxed shellac helps control blotching.

Notable Features

Highly distinctive silvery ray fleck, open pores, good dimensional stability when quartersawn, and attractive reflective figure.

Learn more about Most likely White Oak; alternatives include Red Oak or quartersawn European Oak in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 2, 2026