White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structure (tyloses), making it suitable for outdoor applications and boat building.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium to coarse texture, showing prominent growth rings and characteristic ray fleck visible from quarter-sawn portions
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish or yellowish cast, and paler sapwood. Tends to darken slightly to a warm amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structure (tyloses), making it suitable for outdoor applications and boat building.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned lumber, likely between 5 to 20 years old based on surface oxidation and handling marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable; not listed on CITES appendices and generally of least concern according to the IUCN. Readily available as FSC-certified.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, boat building, exterior construction, and tight cooperage (barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to gluing, screwing, and nailing, though pre-boring is recommended. Contains high tannin content which can react with iron and cause staining.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, and varnishes very well. Water-based or oil-based polyurethane, Danish oil, and lacquer provide excellent results.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses that plug the pores, making the wood water-resistant. High tannin content provides natural decay resistance but causes iron-staining.
