White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and insect attack due to tyloses in the pores)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with distinct ring-porous growth rings and prominent radial rays visible on the end grain.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, narrow lighter-colored sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkens slightly with age and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and insect attack due to tyloses in the pores)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard kiln-dried lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated tree age of 40 to 60 years based on ring count density; recently freshly cut log sample.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List, widely available and sustainably managed in North America)
Common Uses
Fine furniture, hardwood flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, boat building, tight cooperage (barrels), and exterior applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has moderate to high blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron (tannin staining).
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well; water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color without excessive ambering.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses that clog the pores making it water-resistant (used for whiskey barrels and boats); high tannin content makes it reactive to ferrous metals.
