White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay, often used in boat building and exterior applications.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Commonly exhibits a prominent cathedral pattern when flat-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is a lighter tone, nearly white to pale brown. Darkens slightly upon exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay, often used in boat building and exterior applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot (standard grade)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be from a mature tree approximately 60 to 100 years old based on the thick, furrowed bark structure.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant, not CITES listed, and readily available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, architectural millwork, boat building, and tight cooperage (barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally favorable workability with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to high density. Prone to splitting when nailing or screwing, so pre-boring is recommended.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, and oils very well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing over time.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores which make the wood water-resistant. High tannin content, which reacts with iron to cause staining.
