White Oak — Quercus alba

White Oak

Quercus alba · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America
Hardness
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability
Very Durable, excellent resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses in the pores

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Straight grain with prominent ray fleck from quarter-sawn cut orientation

Color & Appearance

Light to medium brown heartwood with a slightly grayish cast, and paler sapwood; moderate natural luster

Hardness (Janka)

1350 lbf (Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable, excellent resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses in the pores

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn figure

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Estimated relatively modern kiln-dried lumber, less than 10 years old based on clean surfaces and lack of deep oxidation

Common Uses

Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, and cooperage

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Good overall workability; responds well to hand and machine tools, but can react with iron to cause discoloration and requires pre-boring for nailing

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well; water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color without excessive ambering

Notable Features

High tannin content makes it corrosive to ferrous metals and resistant to fungal decay, distinctive open pores plugged with tyloses

Learn more about White Oak in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 15, 2026