White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Visible large open pores on the face grain and distinct medullary rays seen on the end grain, suggesting a potential for rift or quarter-sawn figuring.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter than heartwood, showing a creamy white to light tan. It exhibits a low to medium luster and typically darkens slightly to a more golden brown over time.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent decay and rot resistance due to tyloses in the heartwood which plug the pores against moisture. Good insect resistance.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern dimension lumber, likely less than 5 years old based on the clean edges and lack of significant UV oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available with FSC certification.
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 smell when wet. High tannin content can react with iron, causing blue/black staining. Excellent strength and rot resistance properties.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or polyurethane to highlight the grain. Accepts stains well, though it can become blotchy if not pre-conditioned. Tannin-blockers may be needed for some water-based finishes.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible open pores, end-grain ring structure, color tone, and typical North American dimension lumber thickness are characteristic of the Quercus genus, specifically White Oak.