White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy; coarse texture with prominent medullary rays and large, open pores in earlywood; cathedral patterns visible on flat-sawn surfaces
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is off-white to light brown; darkens slightly to amber tones with age and UV exposure
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in pores; high insect resistance
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), exterior construction, and tool handles
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for select grade
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Recent (likely kiln-dried milling within the last 5-10 years based on machining marks and lack of deep oxidation)
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably managed; FSC certified options common
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate; responds well to steam bending; reacts with iron (rust) to create black stains
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut; high tannin content; tyloses block the vascular system making it waterproof; very heavy and strong
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based stains and polyurethane; can be fumed with ammonia to darken; requires sanding to 180-220 grit for best results
Identification Confidence
High; the ring-porous structure, prominent rays visible even in the rough cut, and characteristic olive-tan color are hallmark indicators of White Oak.