White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable, with good natural resistance to decay due to closed cellular structure.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with pronounced rays and flecks visible on quartersawn surfaces, typical of heavy figuring in turned furniture components.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with darker weathered aging spots and grayish patina from exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with good natural resistance to decay due to closed cellular structure.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 50 to 100 years old based on the deep checking, severe weathering, and patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists; widely abundant and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high density and is prone to splitting when nailed without pre-drilling.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes well. Polyurethane or hardening oils are recommended for durable protection.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood which plug pores and make it water-resistant; high tannin content which can react with iron.
