White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn face with some distinctive large, open pores and visible medullary rays appearing as darker flecks or streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light cream. This specific sample shows significant 'iron staining' or gray-blue discoloration on the right side, likely caused by a chemical reaction between the wood's high tannin content and iron/moisture contact.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood which plug the vessels, making it liquid-resistant.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), trim, and outdoor construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Post-production sample showing 5-20 years of age; the graying is environmental staining rather than ancient patina, while the left side shows relatively fresh oxidation.
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 seasoning must be done carefully. Does not react well with iron (causes staining), but glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Contains high levels of tannic acid which causes a blue-black chemical stain when in contact with iron and water (as seen in the photo). Has a distinct, slightly acidic scent when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Since this sample has iron staining, an oxalic acid wash could be used to remove the graying if a natural look is desired before applying polyurethane or oil.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of large open pores, visible medullary rays, and the specific blue-black reaction to iron moisture is diagnostic of the White Oak group.