White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure containing tyloses.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with pronounced ray fleck and prominent growth rings visible on quartersawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, contrasting with paler sapwood. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to an amber patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure containing tyloses.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately weathered, roughly 5 to 15 years old based on surface oxidation and rough-sawn texture.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high tannin content that can react with iron and cause corrosion or staining. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac exceptionally well. Pre-conditioning is generally unnecessary, but non-reactive fasteners should be used to prevent tannin staining.
Notable Features
High tannin content makes it naturally resistant to decay and reactive with iron; contains closed cellular structures (tyloses) making it water-resistant.
