White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with noticeable growth rings, displaying a mix of flat-sawn cathedral patterns and some quarter-sawn ray fleck. Visible prominent pores and medullary rays characteristic of oak.
Color & Appearance
Medium to golden brown with honey tones and darker contrasting mineral streaks or natural character marks. Sapwood is typically lighter in color. The wood exhibits a warm luster and tends to darken slightly to a richer amber hue over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per square foot installed, or approximately 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for raw lumber depending on grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Installed flooring sample showing typical patina and minor surface wear of a mature modern interior floor, estimated at 5-15 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant in North America, sustainably harvested, and readily available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, barrel making, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to density and silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but prone to splitting when nailed near edges so pre-drilling is recommended.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, UV-cured factory finishes, hardwax oils, or traditional oil-based finishes. Tannins can react with certain water-based finishes, so proper sealing or compatible products are recommended.
Notable Features
High tannin content which makes it naturally resistant to decay and moisture (often used for liquid-holding barrels). Features characteristic open pores that often require grain filling for a perfectly smooth finish.
