White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse, straight grain with prominent cathedral figure in the flat-sawn sections and visible large rays. Porous texture typical of ring-porous species.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Characterized by low luster and a tendency to darken slightly over time.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores. Exceptionally resistant to water and moisture.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Freshly milled; based on the lack of oxidation, sharp edges, and presence of fresh saw marks/fuzziness on the surface.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available as FSC-certified.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools. It has a moderately high shrinkage rate resulting in mediocre dimensional stability. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) if wet.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic odor when being worked. Contains tyloses which plug the vessels, making the wood liquid-tight. High tannin content can cause corrosion in unprotected fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Takes finishes well, particularly oil-based stains which highlight the grain. Responds beautifully to fuming with ammonia to darken the color naturally.
Identification Confidence
High; the broad grain patterns, light brown color with olive undertones, and visible large rays are classic markers for White Oak.