White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with prominent ray fleck visible from quarter-sawn orientation, displaying open pores characteristic of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct grayish or yellowish cast, and paler sapwood. Exhibits moderate natural luster and tends to darken to a richer amber hue over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade, thickness, and whether it is plain-sawn or quarter-sawn.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old based on surface oxidation and dry patina, though exact age depends on the original tree's harvest date.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN. Readily available as sustainably harvested lumber certified by the FSC.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, boat building, exterior construction, and tight cooperage (barrels for aging wine and whiskey).
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it has a moderate blunting effect on cutters due to its density. Takes nails, screws, and glue well, and responds favorably to steam bending.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well. Water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color, while oil-based finishes impart a warm amber glow.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood pores which plug the wood cells, making it naturally water-resistant and impervious to liquid leakage. High tannin content makes it reactive to iron, causing dark staining if exposed to ferrous metals in damp conditions.
