White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (excellent decay resistance and closed cellular structure due to tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with pronounced coarse texture and prominent growth rings visible in rough-sawn surface marks.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast; pale yellowish-white sapwood. Luster is low due to rough-sawn state.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (excellent decay resistance and closed cellular structure due to tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot (standard domestic lumber pricing)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years old, typical of reclaimed or freshly milled seasoned lumber with weathered surface texture.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List, widely available and sustainably managed in North America)
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has moderate to high blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but prone to splitting when nailing or screwing so pre-boring is recommended.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing if a natural look is desired.
Notable Features
Contains abundant tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it water-resistant, high tannin content which can react with iron to cause dark blue-black stains.
