White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with pronounced growth ring texturing and checking visible on the weathered surface
Color & Appearance
Golden brown to light tan heartwood with weathered gray patina on the exterior surface; moderate luster when freshly exposed
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 and kiln-dried status
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 50 to 100+ years old based on weathering, deep checking, and patina
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, exterior construction, and timber framing
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Moderate to difficult due to hardness; prone to splitting when nailing or screwing, pre-boring is recommended
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, conversion varnish, or penetrating oils; reactive stains and vinegar-iron solutions react with tannins for ebonizing
Notable Features
High tannin content providing natural decay resistance, heavy and dense with closed cellular structure
