White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Quarter-sawn section visible shows characteristic medullary rays (flecking). Large, open pores visible in the face grain.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter. Exhibits low luster and tends to darken slightly toward an amber hue with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores that make the wood nearly water-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on cut and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample likely under 5 years old based on lack of deep oxidation or heavy patina and fresh mill marks.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Hardness can cause some dulling of blades; glues and finishes well but can react with iron-based fasteners to cause staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when cut. High tannin content can cause dark staining when in contact with iron and water. Liquid-tight pore structure makes it unique among oaks.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, oil, or lacquer. Responds exceptionally well to fuming with ammonia to darken the wood (Mission style). Pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible medullary rays, large vessels, and olive-brown coloration are diagnostic of the white oak group, specifically likely Quercus alba.