White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable, with very good resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures (tyloses), making it suitable for exterior applications.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with distinct growth rings and prominent rays visible on the end and face grain, characteristic of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct paler sapwood, moderate natural luster, tending to darken to a richer golden-brown patina over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, with very good resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures (tyloses), making it suitable for exterior applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively freshly milled or recently processed kiln-dried lumber, estimated less than 1 to 2 years since cutting, showing minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list, widely available as FSC-certified.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
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 high density and silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron fasteners to produce black stains.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing, while oil-based finishes enhance the natural warm brown tones.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores which make the heartwood water-resistant, high tannin content which reacts chemically with iron, and a distinct, pleasant natural wood scent.
