White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight-grained with a medium to coarse texture and characteristic large pores. Displaying radial rays typical of oak.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter, nearly white to light brown. Becomes more amber/golden with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses that plug the vessels.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and cut.
Wood Age Estimate
Unknown; modern machine-cut edge suggests contemporary retail or shop stock.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern; widely available and sustainable with many FSC certified sources.
Workability
Generally good results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, though can react with iron-based fasteners (staining).
Notable Features
Characteristic vinegar-like scent when freshly cut. Contains high tannin content. Notable for tyloses in pores which make it liquid-tight.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oils, polyurethane, and lacquer. Takes stains well, though large pores may require a grain filler for a glass-smooth finish.
Identification Confidence
High; the end-grain shows distinct ring-porous structure and latewood pores that are small and numerous, characteristic of the White Oak group vs Red Oak.