White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face; contains distinctive large rays and open pores characteristic of the Quercus genus.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; sapwood is lighter off-white to light brown. Exhibits a characteristic golden-tan luster that tends to darken into an amber hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood which plug the vascular vessels, making it nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 20-40 years old based on surface oxidation, accumulation of dust/patina, and the rough-sawn industrial texture consistent with older secondary lumber.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainable; frequently FSC certified.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a smooth surface.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'tannic' scent when cut; high tannin content can cause dark staining when in contact with iron/steel in wet conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based stains to highlight grain; polyurethane or lacquer for protection. Iron-buffing or 'fuming' with ammonia can be used to naturally darken the wood.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible pore structure, ray fleck appearance, and specific olive-tan coloration are diagnostic of American White Oak.