White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent open-pore texture, exhibiting a combination of flat-sawn cathedral patterns and noticeable ray fleck.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with grayish undertones and subtle color variation; moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot for standard domestic lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated modern stock, likely between 1 to 10 years old based on clean milling and contemporary finishing style.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list, widely available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, and interior architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges quickly; holds screws and glues well, but reacts with iron to cause dark staining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and lacquers exceptionally well; water-based polyurethane or hard-wax oils preserve the natural muted gray-brown tone effectively.
Notable Features
High tannin content which provides natural weather resistance and causes iron-staining reactions; contains tyloses that make the wood water-resistant.
