White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral grain with coarse, open texture and visible medium-to-large pores. Straight grain but showing prominent arching figure.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light tan. It exhibits moderate luster and typically darkens slightly to a more golden brown with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf - Hard
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-contact applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; the uniformity of the cut and application (likely trim or door jamb) suggests 0-20 years of age.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has high shrinkage, so seasoned wood is essential. Responds well to steam-bending and glues/finishes well, though it can react with iron fasteners to cause staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive tell-tale 'cathedral' figure when flat-sawn. Contains high tannin levels. Pores are clogged with tyloses which makes it leak-proof for liquids.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based stains or polyurethane work very well to highlight the grain. Takes dyes and fuming (ammonia) techniques exceptionally well for a 'mission-style' look.
Identification Confidence
High; the large ring-porous structure and characteristic cathedral grain pattern are classic diagnostic features of North American White Oak.