White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a medium to large texture. The face grain shows typical cathedral patterning and prominent growth rings with visible rays.
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.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it more water-resistant than Red Oak.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern. The wood appears to be kiln-dried stock with recent mechanical sanding and modern branding/ink application.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendix or on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, though it can react with iron fasteners to produce dark stains.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when worked. High tannin content can cause 'iron gall' staining if in contact with wet steel. Contains tyloses that plug vascular vessels.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based stains, polyurethane, or natural wax. Pore filler can be used for a glass-smooth finish due to the coarse texture.
Identification Confidence
High. The ring-porous structure, color, and specific grain texture are classic diagnostic features of North American White Oak.