White Oak (Alternative: Red Oak)
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot and decay, closed cellular structure with tyloses preventing moisture penetration)
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Grain Pattern
Plain-sawn and quarter-sawn indicators with prominent straight to slightly irregular grain, showing distinct broad medullary rays characteristic of oak figure on the radial surface.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a slight golden hue, lighter sapwood, moderate natural luster, and darkens slightly to a rich amber patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot and decay, closed cellular structure with tyloses preventing moisture penetration)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and kiln-dried status
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned lumber, likely cut within the last 1 to 5 years based on surface oxidation and lack of deep historical patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List. Abundant and sustainably managed in North American forests with FSC certification widely available.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high density and silica content. Responds well to steam bending, gluing, and screwing, but prone to splitting when nailed without pre-boring.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing, while oil-based finishes enhance the natural warm brown tones.
Notable Features
High tannin content which reacts corrosively with iron and steel in the presence of moisture, strong characteristic scent when freshly cut, and closed cellular structure (tyloses) making it waterproof.
