White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a medium to large texture. Visible medullary rays and 'flecking' characteristic of rift-sawn and quarter-sawn oak cuts.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden-amber and darkens slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores that make the wood nearly water-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on cut and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; likely harvested within the last 5-10 years based on the clean surface and lack of deep oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Can react with iron fasteners (causing blue-black staining) due to high tannin content.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. High tannin content can cause corrosion with iron. Pores are plugged with tyloses, making it suitable for liquid-holding vessels.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are common to enhance the grain and provide protection. Fuming with ammonia can achieve deep, rich colors.
Identification Confidence
High; the large, open-pored grain structure combined with the visible medullary ray flecks and light olive-brown hue are definitive characteristics of White Oak.