White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to closed cellular structure and high tannin content)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a coarse and uneven texture, featuring prominent growth rings and characteristic broad ray flecks visible on quarter-sawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct pale yellowish-white sapwood. The wood shows moderate natural luster and typically darkens to a richer amber or golden brown with age and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to closed cellular structure and high tannin content)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly milled to moderately aged lumber (0 to 5 years old), showing minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, widely available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrel making), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a moderate blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts strongly with iron (causing dark stains) due to high tannin content.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color, while oil-based finishes enhance the golden amber tones.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood pores which plug the pores and make the wood water-resistant. High tannin content provides exceptional natural durability.
