White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, highly resistant to rot and insect attack due to closed cellular structure and tyloses
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent coarse texture, featuring visible growth rings and occasional plain-sawn cathedral patterns on the face
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, distinct paler sapwood, low natural luster, darkens slightly to an amber tone with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, highly resistant to rot and insect attack due to closed cellular structure and tyloses
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Rough-sawn green or freshly milled lumber with minimal surface oxidation, estimated to be under 2 years since harvest
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, categorized as least concern by the IUCN, widely available from sustainably managed forests
Common Uses
Fine furniture, heavy flooring, exterior and interior cabinetry, boat building, architectural millwork, and barrel staves
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Good overall workability, responds well to hand and machine tools, but has high tannin content which can react with iron and cause staining
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, oils, and polyurethane exceptionally well; non-reactive finishes recommended to prevent tannin discoloration
Notable Features
Closed cellular structure featuring tyloses making it water-resistant, high tannin content, distinct ray fleck when quarter-sawn
