White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, largely due to tyloses blocking the pores.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with distinct prominent medullary rays creating fleck patterns visible on the quarter-sawn surface.
Color & Appearance
Light brown to pale yellowish-brown heartwood with a lighter sapwood. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a rich amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, largely due to tyloses blocking the pores.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot for standard domestic lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly milled or recently processed within the last few months, showing minimal oxidation or surface patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN. Readily available and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, exterior construction, tight cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools. Can be prone to splitting when nailing or screwing, so pre-boring is recommended. Reacts with iron fasteners in the presence of moisture, causing dark stains.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color, while oil-based finishes enhance warm amber tones.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood vessels which make the wood water-resistant (impermeable to liquid), high tannin content leading to iron-staining reactivity.
