White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure with tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent, visible medullary rays and open pores typical of quarter-sawn or rift-sawn white oak.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish hue, and lighter sapwood. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a rich amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure with tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, estimated under 10 years old based on surface texture and milling marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern. Widely abundant and sustainably harvested with FSC certification readily available.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has moderate blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to form dark stains.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers very well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing if a natural look is desired.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses that make it waterproof (used for liquid-holding barrels). High tannin content which reacts chemically with iron and steel.
