Quarter-sawn White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent medullary rays (tiger stripe/ray fleck figure) typical of quarter-sawn orientation
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown with an olive cast; this specific sample shows a dark amber/brown stained finish. Sapwood is typically light tan to white.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, frequently used in boat building and outdoor applications due to tyloses in pores.
Common Uses
High-end furniture (Mission/Arts and Crafts style), flooring, cabinetry, barrel making (cooperage), and boatbuilding.
Geographic Origin
Eastern Northern America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $12.00 per board foot for premium quarter-sawn grade
Wood Age Estimate
Vintage (approx. 40-70 years old), based on the characteristic Arts and Crafts style construction and the darkened patina of the finish.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably harvested in North America; FSC certified sources common.
Workability
Excellent results with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Requires pre-boring for screws.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'ray fleck' figure when quarter-sawn. Contains high tannin content which allows for fuming with ammonia to darken the wood.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Traditionally finished with oil and wax or shellac to highlight the medullary rays.
Identification Confidence
High; the prominent medullary ray flecks visible on the surface are a diagnostic characteristic of quarter-sawn Oak, specifically White Oak given the grain tightness.