White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with large pores; notable cathedraling near knots and some crotch figure visible where limbs joined. Significant medullary rays are characteristic of the species.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is slightly lighter. It tends to darken or amber over time with light exposure but maintains a relatively neutral tone compared to Red Oak.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent decay resistance and highly resistant to rot. Historically used for boat building because the pores are plugged with tyloses, making it water-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, barrel making (cooperage), boat building, tool handles, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot for kiln-dried FAS grade lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be freshly split or relatively young firewood (1-2 years since harvest) based on the lack of grey oxidation and the sharpness of the splintered fibers.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, though pre-boring for screws is recommended due to its density.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when wet; high tannin content can cause dark stains if it comes into contact with iron in wet conditions. Contains tyloses in the heartwood pores which prevents liquid penetration.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes beautifully. Penetrating oils (tung or linseed) highlight the grain, while polyurethane provides excellent protection for high-traffic surfaces like flooring.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of large, open pores, the specific light brown with olive-cast coloration, and the visible fibrous structure near the knot are classic indicators of Quercus alba.