White Oak (reclaimed)
Quercus alba • Hardwood / Reclaimed
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight to slightly irregular with visible medullary rays and cathedral patterns; contains knots and some checking indicative of flat-sawn reclaimed stock.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown with olive cast; sapwood is lighter off-white. This sample shows significant oxidation, weathering, and graying from exposure, which is characteristic of aged reclaimed wood.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high rot and decay resistance due to tyloses in the pores that make the wood nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and increasingly used in reclaimed architectural beams and rustic decor.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $12.00 per board foot (varies based on width and character marks of reclaimed stock)
Wood Age Estimate
20-50 years since harvest; surface patina and weathering suggest it has been exposed or salvaged from a secondary structure like a barn or fence.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; widely available and not CITES listed. Salvaging reclaimed wood is considered an eco-friendly practice.
Workability
Generally good with machine and hand tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Reclaimed pieces may contain hidden hardware (nails) that can damage blades. Dulls cutting edges moderately.
Notable Features
Features tyloses which block the pores; has a distinct, slightly acidic scent when freshly cut; high tannin content can cause dark staining when in contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes enhance the character of reclaimed wood. Penetrating oils or matte polyurethanes are recommended to preserve the rustic aesthetic. Sanding is required to remove surface oxidation.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible large-pored ring-porous structure, medullary rays, and the specific olive-brown color cast are diagnostic of the White Oak group.