White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strong cathedral grain figure visible on the flat-sawn face with straight, medium-to-coarse texture; contains prominent medullary rays and tyloses in the pores.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is lighter off-white to light brown. Finishes to a warm honey-gold and darkens slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses blocking the vascular system; frequently used for liquid-holding vessels.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be modern secondary processing or reclaimed board showing surface oxidation and minor shop wear, likely 5-20 years since harvest.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with FSC certification; very sustainable species in North America.
Workability
Works well with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, but can react with iron-based fasteners to cause blue-black staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked; high tannin content makes it susceptible to iron staining; presence of tyloses makes it waterproof for boat building.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; penetrating oils (tung or linseed) to highlight grain; reactive stains or fuming (ammonia) for vintage looks.
Identification Confidence
High; the prominent cathedral grain, open but clogged pores (tyloses), olive-brown undertone, and characteristic ray flecks are diagnostic for White Oak.