High, confirmed by the prominent ring-porous end grain structure, ray cells, and characteristic color and texture. confidenceIdentify wood
White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture characteristic of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct paler sapwood, displaying good natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated several decades based on oxidation and patina of the exposed surface.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, and tight cooperage (barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has high tannin content which can react with iron and cause staining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well. Pre-finishing care needed to avoid iron-tannin stains.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores which make it water-resistant, high tannin content, and distinctive ray fleck when quarter-sawn.
Identified August 5, 2026
