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 grain with a plain-sawn/flat-sawn face showing typical cathedral patterns characteristic of oak species.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a lighter sapwood. Moderate natural luster that will amber slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated under 1 to 5 years since harvesting based on surface oxidation and condition.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, widely abundant, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, and cooperage due to closed cellular structure.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally good workability with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to silica content. Takes screws and glues well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes very well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing if a natural look is desired.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores which makes the wood water-resistant, high tannin content which can react with iron to cause black staining.
