White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern to central North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. High resistance to decay and rot due to abundant tyloses in earlywood pores; moderate resistance to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain visible on cross-section with prominent, wide ray flecks (medullary rays) extending radially from the center pitch outwards.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light to medium beige-tan with warm golden-brown hues. Thin sapwood ring near the thick, dark, textured outer bark. Darkens slightly with exposure to air and light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. High resistance to decay and rot due to abundant tyloses in earlywood pores; moderate resistance to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot (rough-sawn, FAS grade)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut log/tree section showing ~35 to 45 annual growth rings, freshly sawn end face showing minimal aging or oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Highly sustainable, widespread availability, widely FSC certified.
Common Uses
Hardwood flooring, fine furniture, cabinetry, barrel cooperage (wine and whiskey), boat building, timber framing, and outdoor construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern to central North America
Workability
Good workability with machine tools, though high density causes moderate dulling of cutters. Pre-boring required for screws/nails. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including penetrating oils, hardwax oils, varnish, and polyurethane. Pre-treat with grain filler if ultra-smooth finish is desired.
Notable Features
Distinct broad medullary rays, closed-pore structure (tyloses), mild characteristic woody scent when freshly cut, high tannin content which can react with iron tools/fasteners causing black stains.
