White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, highly resistant to rot and decay due to closed cellular structures.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with distinct growth rings visible on the end grain, featuring prominent rays.
Color & Appearance
Light brown to medium brown heartwood with a paler sapwood, showing typical fresh log oxidation when freshly cut.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, highly resistant to rot and decay due to closed cellular structures.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for kiln-dried lumber; lower value as raw logs.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently harvested log, estimated tree age 40-70 years based on ring count and diameter.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern, widely abundant and sustainably managed across North America.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and outdoor construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Moderate to difficult; works well with hand and machine tools, but prone to splitting when nailing or screwing; high tannin content can react with iron.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and polyurethane finishes very well, though water-based finishes may cause tannin bleed if not properly sealed.
Notable Features
High tannin content, closed cellular structure (tyloses) making it water-resistant, and distinct ray fleck when quarter-sawn.
