White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with large, deep longitudinal pores and a rough-textured surface typical of flat-sawn or live-edge stock
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Notable for significant darkening and graying with weather exposure as seen in this weathered specimen
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to rot and decay, frequently used in boat building and outdoor applications due to tyloses in pores
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and tool handles
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness
Wood Age Estimate
The heavy oxidation, graying, and surface checking suggest this is reclaimed material or outdoor-stored rough-cut lumber aged 10-30 years
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally very sustainable with FSC availability
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when machined; high tannin content can cause dark staining when in contact with iron and water
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or polyurethane to protect the open grain; requires sanding through weathered layers to reach vibrant heartwood color
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identified by the thick, chunky bark texture and the ring-porous grain structure visible on the weathered face, which is characteristic of the Quercus genus