White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a rift-sawn to quarter-sawn orientation showing characteristic long, narrow ray flecks and large, open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is near white to light brown. It tends to darken slightly toward a more amber-gold tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it water-resistant.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely kiln-dried and processed within the last 1-5 years based on the lack of oxidation patina and fresh machine-milled edges.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools, though it has a moderately high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause corrosion with iron fasteners (resulting in blue/black staining). Pores are plugged with tyloses, making it suitable for liquid-tight containers.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes beautifully. Penetrating oils bring out the grain, while polyurethane or lacquer provides a durable surface for high-wear areas.
Identification Confidence
High; the open grain structure, characteristic light brown/olive color, and visible ring-porous end grain are definitive indicators of White Oak.