White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and prominent rays typical of the Quercus genus
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast; sapwood is lighter white to light brown. Darkens slightly with age
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores; used frequently for boatbuilding
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and tool handles
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled or secondary processing stage; surface shows rough-sawn texture with minimal oxidation or patina
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification
Workability
Commonly easy to work with machine and hand tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, though pre-boring is recommended
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked; high tannin content can cause dark staining when in contact with iron and moisture
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes beautifully; polyurethane or penetrating oils are recommended for durability
Identification Confidence
Medium; the visible grain architecture, pore structure, and light brown/olive hue are characteristic of White Oak, through the rough surface texture adds some ambiguity