White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Combination of straight grain and distinct cathedral figure in the center; flat-sawn appearance with coarse, open texture and medium to large pores.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is lighter off-white. Color tends to darken slightly with age and UV exposure, becoming more gold/amber.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in heartwood pores which make it nearly waterproof.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrel making (cooperage), interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on region and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber; sample appears relatively new (less than 10 years old) with minimal oxidation and clear factory-processed surface texture.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; widespread availability, not CITES listed, listed as least concern by IUCN, widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Gluing, staining, and finishing are effortless, though pre-boring is recommended for nails/screws.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic acid scent when wet; high tannin content can cause blue-black staining if in contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based polyurethane or lacquer to highlight grain; reactive stains or 'fuming' with ammonia can be used to create traditional Mission/Arts cabinet colors.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible large vessels, distinct cathedral grain on face, and characteristic olive-tan hue are classic indicators of Quercus alba.