White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced ring-porous texture, featuring visible rays on quartered sections.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish-brown cast; paler sapwood. Darkens slightly with age and ambering finishes.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50 years based on surface weathering, oxidation, and dry storage patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and exterior applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to hardness. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but high tannin content can react with iron.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing if a natural look is desired.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses which make the wood waterproof, high tannin content, distinct ray fleck when quarter-sawn.
