Most likely white oak; red oak is a possible alternative. The photo alone is insufficient for a definitive species identification. — Quercus alba (likely); Quercus rubra is an alternative.

Most likely white oak; red oak is a possible alternative. The photo alone is insufficient for a definitive species identification.

Quercus alba (likely); Quercus rubra is an alternative. · Hardwood (temperate North American species).

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (temperate North American species).
Origin
White and red oaks are native to eastern North America and widely grown across the eastern United States and parts of Canada.
Hardness
1,360 lbf for white oak — Hard. Red oak is about 1,290 lbf, also Hard.
Durability
Durable for white oak heartwood, with good rot resistance; red oak heartwood is less durable, especially outdoors. Sapwood is less resistant in either species.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, moderately coarse grain with longitudinal streaks; the face appears plain-sawn or rift-like. No distinctive figure is evident.

Color & Appearance

Pale tan to light brown, with subtle darker streaks; sapwood and heartwood are not clearly separable here. Freshly cut oak often darkens slightly with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1,360 lbf for white oak — Hard. Red oak is about 1,290 lbf, also Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable for white oak heartwood, with good rot resistance; red oak heartwood is less durable, especially outdoors. Sapwood is less resistant in either species.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$5–12 per board foot for common kiln-dried lumber; grade, thickness, location, and species affect price.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be estimated reliably from this image; the clean, pale surface shows little obvious patina or wear.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, and—particularly for white oak—barrels and outdoor applications.

Geographic Origin

White and red oaks are native to eastern North America and widely grown across the eastern United States and parts of Canada.

Workability

Generally machines and finishes well, though coarse grain can tear out during planing. Predrill near edges; gluing is typically straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively and use oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane. A pore filler can produce a smoother finish; test stain first for even color.

Notable Features

Oak’s visible pores and prominent grain are characteristic; white oak has tyloses that make its heartwood relatively liquid-resistant.

Learn more about Most likely white oak; red oak is a possible alternative. The photo alone is insufficient for a definitive species identification. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 1, 2026