White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, highly resistant to rot and insect attack due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium to coarse texture, predominantly flat-sawn appearance showing visible growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with an olive or yellowish cast; sapwood is lighter and distinct from the heartwood.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, highly resistant to rot and insect attack due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, around 10 to 30 years based on surface oxidation and patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN; widely available.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges; glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide range of finishes including polyurethane, lacquer, varnish, and oils; water-based finishes may raise grain slightly.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses which make the wood water-resistant, high tannin content which can react with iron.
