White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with large pores; shows characteristic long medullary rays on radial surfaces. Distinct ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light tan to nearly white. Ages to a deeper amber/golden brown with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in heartwood pores; frequently used in boatbuilding.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and cut.
Wood Age Estimate
Post-harvest age 1-5 years based on surface oxidation and minor weathering patterns on unfinished rough-cut face.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; widespread availability; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Requires pre-boring for screws/nails. Reacts with iron (blue-black staining) when wet.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked; very high tannin content; contains tyloses which make the wood waterproof/airtight.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes provide excellent protection. Fuming with ammonia can achieve deep, dark tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible large vessels, ring-porous structure, and classic light-brown olive hue are diagnostic for the White Oak group.