White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible. Large, open pores and prominent medullary rays are characteristic of the species.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter, though not always clearly demarcated. It tends to darken or yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the heartwood pores.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; the high-quality surface finish and fresh signature suggests the wood was milled and finished within the last 5-10 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has a relatively high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when worked. High tannin content can cause blue-black staining if it comes into contact with iron in wet conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane, oils, or lacquer are recommended to highlight the grain and provide protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the open grain structure, color with olive undertones, and visible vessels are diagnostic for White Oak.