White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and moisture due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with prominent quarter-sawn ray fleck (medullary rays)
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; pale yellowish-white sapwood. Luster is medium.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and moisture due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 5.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn figure
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated relatively modern kiln-dried lumber, roughly 1 to 5 years since milling based on clean surface and lack of heavy oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN red list. Widely available and sustainably managed in North America (FSC certified available).
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels)
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Good workability with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Can react with iron fasteners causing dark stains due to high tannin content.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing over time.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses which make the wood water-resistant. High tannin content. Prominent medullary rays producing distinct ray fleck when quarter-sawn.
