White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-contact applications.
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Grain Pattern
Coarse, straight-grained with large pores; shows some cathedral figure on flat-sawn surfaces and distinctive ray flecks on quarter-sawn sections.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast; sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Characterized by moderate luster, darkening significantly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-contact applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern era (1-10 years); the piece shows minimal oxidation and typical industrial kiln-dried color consistency.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally good results with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oil-based finishes, polyurethane, and reactive stains (fuming); pore filler is recommended for a glass-smooth surface.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked; high tannin content can cause dark staining when in contact with iron and moisture.
