White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. High tannin content provides excellent resistance to rot and decay; widely used for moisture-sensitive applications.
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Grain Pattern
Prominent cathedral grain on flat-sawn surfaces with visible ray fleck. Texture is coarse and uneven with large open pores typical of ring-porous woods.
Color & Appearance
Medium to dark brown heartwood with a yellowish cast, though the sample appears stained. Natural sapwood is light tan. It exhibits a moderate luster and tends to darken/amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. High tannin content provides excellent resistance to rot and decay; widely used for moisture-sensitive applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The surface patina, micro-scratching in the finish, and depth of color suggest the installation or finish is approximately 15-30 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Gluing, staining, and finishing are generally easy, though high tannin can react with iron-based fasteners to cause staining.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are ideal for flooring. Given the open grain, a grain filler can be used if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'oak' scent when worked. Contains tyloses in the pores which make the wood nearly water-tight, unlike Red Oak.
