White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with large pores; shows distinct ring-porous structure and prominent medullary rays if quarter-sawn. This specimen shows a knot with irregular grain swirls and a deep split.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is near-white to light brown. Finishes to a warm honey-gold and darkens slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses in heartwood pores; frequently used in boat building.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, barrel making (cooperage), boat building, tool handles, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh/raw state; rough-sawn with minimal oxidation, likely harvested within the last 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification.
Workability
Easy to work with machine tools and hand tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Gluing and finishing are excellent; takes stains well. Responds well to steam bending.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut; high tannin content can cause dark stains if it comes into contact with iron/water. Contain tyloses which make the wood waterproof.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or polyurethane are recommended to highlight depth. High tannin content may require a sealer if using water-based finishes to prevent bleeding.
Identification Confidence
High; the open grain structure, color, characteristic medullary ray flecks visible near the split, and general texture are classic hallmarks of White Oak.