White Oak (or Red Oak species)
Quercus alba (or Quercus rubra) · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. High natural resistance to rot, decay, and moisture degradation due to tyloses in heartwood pores.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to moderately coarse grain with prominent, wide growth ring patterns visible on flat-sawn surfaces and broad ray fleck patterns when quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light to medium tan or golden brown; sapwood is pale cream to off-white. Darkens and takes on a amber/golden hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. High natural resistance to rot, decay, and moisture degradation due to tyloses in heartwood pores.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 – $12.00 per board foot (lumber grade dependent)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly downed log/raw timber cut within 1–2 years; tree age estimated at 40–70+ years based on trunk diameter and bark block depth.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Widely available, sustainably managed, and non-CITES listed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, hardwood flooring, cabinetry, barrel coopering (wine/whiskey), timber framing, boatbuilding, architectural millwork, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Excellent with machine tools; hard on hand tool edges. Glues, sands, stains, and finishes exceptionally well. Prone to splintering or tearout if tools are dull.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil finish, polyurethane topcoat, lacquers, or wiped stains. Pore filler recommended prior to high-gloss topcoats if a smooth surface is desired.
Notable Features
High tannin content, distinctive oak scent when freshly cut, excellent bending strength, and open-pore structure.
