White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and moisture due to closed cellular structures (tyloses), making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn face, typical of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a lighter sapwood; exhibits a natural golden-tan hue that slowly deepens to a warm amber patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay, rot, and moisture due to closed cellular structures (tyloses), making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly milled or recently processed lumber, showing minimal oxidation and clean, sharp edges.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices, of least concern on the IUCN Red List, and widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, barrels, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high density and silica content. Responds well to steam bending, gluing, and screwing, but pre-drilling is recommended.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes prevent yellowing if a lighter natural look is desired, while oil-based finishes enhance the warm golden undertones.
Notable Features
High tannin content which can react with iron to cause dark staining; closed cellular structure (tyloses) provides natural water resistance; distinctive prominent growth rings and ray fleck when quartersawn.
