White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse, straight grain with prominent ray flecks or medullary rays visible in localized areas; predominantly ring-porous texture.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, often with an olive cast; sapwood is lighter white to light brown. Finishes often darken to a deep amber with age as shown in the furniture sample.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; known for exceptional rot and decay resistance due to tyloses in the pores which make it water-resistant.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring (seen in background), cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot for select grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Approximately 40-70 years based on the furniture style, oxidation of the finish, and wear patterns on the armrest.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent results with hand and machine tools; however, it has a high shrinkage rate and can react with iron fasteners to cause blue/black staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut; contains high tannin content; tyloses give it unique liquid-tight properties compared to Red Oak.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, oil-based varnishes, or shellac work well. The sample shows a likely lacquer or varnish that has patinated over decades.
Identification Confidence
High; the large open pores in the armrest combined with the characteristic medullary rays and color are diagnostic for White Oak, while the background flooring confirms standard residential oak usage.