White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct paler sapwood, darkening slightly to an amber tone with age
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 10 to 50 years based on standard commercial seasoning and surface texture
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, generally considered of least concern by the IUCN, widely available certified by the FSC
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, and tight cooperage (barrels)
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can react with iron and cause staining due to high tannin content
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well, though a non-reactive primer or sealer may be used to prevent tannin bleed
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores which make it water-resistant, high tannin content, and distinct ray fleck patterns when quarter-sawn
