White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (due to closed cellular structure with tyloses, providing excellent resistance to rot and moisture)
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn (plain-sawn) face grain displaying prominent cathedral arch patterns, combined with a clear growth ring structure visible on the end grain.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish or slightly yellowish cast, distinct paler sapwood, low to medium natural luster, and darkens slightly to a warmer amber tone over time when exposed to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (due to closed cellular structure with tyloses, providing excellent resistance to rot and moisture)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or freshly surfaced lumber, estimated at less than 1 to 5 years old based on clean surfaces and lack of deep oxidation patina
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (Not CITES listed, widely available, abundant and sustainably harvested in North America under FSC and regional forestry guidelines)
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, mission-style furniture, and tight cooperage (barrels)
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally good workability with both hand and machine tools, though it has moderate to high bluntness on cutting edges; glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to form dark stains if exposed to moisture
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes exceptionally well; water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color, while oil-based finishes add warmth and enhance the grain pattern
Notable Features
Contains tyloses that plug the pores making the wood water-resistant, high tannin content which reacts chemically with iron and steel, distinct characteristic odor when freshly cut
