White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay, and moderately resistant to insect attacks.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with pronounced growth rings, featuring open pores and characteristic flake patterns typical of quarter-sawn or rift-sawn boards.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish or slightly olive cast, and lighter sapwood. Tends to darken slightly to a warm amber patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay, and moderately resistant to insect attacks.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern stock, estimated between 5 to 20 years old based on surface wear and lack of deep historical patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available and sustainably managed in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, boat building, and tight cooperage (barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to its density. Responds very well to steam bending, gluing, and staining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes exceptionally well. Water-based or oil-based polyurethanes provide durable protection for high-use surfaces.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it impermeable to water, high tannin content which reacts strongly with iron to cause black staining.
