White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight but showing cathedral figure and wavy movement in the center. Coarse texture with visible open pores and some ray fleck figure visible due to the tangential/flat-sawn cut.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is lighter white to light brown. Exhibits a low to medium luster and typically darkens slightly to a more golden-amber hue over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses that plug the vessels, making it liquid-tight and suitable for boat building.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, wine barrels (cooperage), trim, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of deep oxidation and clean, machine-planed appearance.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and generally considered highly sustainable.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has a moderately high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Reacts with iron fasteners (causing blue/black staining) and can be difficult to steam-bend if kiln-dried.
Notable Features
Telltale 'oak' scent when worked. High tannin content. Noted for its ring-porous structure and tyloses which make the wood waterproof compared to Red Oak.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though large pores may require a grain filler for a smooth glass-like surface. Penetrating oils, polyurethane, and lacquer are all excellent choices.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic large open pores, color palette with olive undertones, and the specific cathedral grain pattern are classic diagnostic markers for North American White Oak.