White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture; exhibits pronounced growth rings typical of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct paler sapwood; moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawing.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut log, estimated tree age before harvest approximately 60 to 90 years based on visible ring density.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with good FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to split when nailed (pre-boring recommended) and reacts with iron.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes well; water-based finishes may occasionally react with tannins, so a seal coat is sometimes recommended.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it water-resistant and suitable for liquid-tight barrels; high tannin content.
