White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent growth rings showing a combination of flat-sawn and rift-sawn patterns, displaying characteristic oak ray flecks.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish or yellowish cast, and lighter sapwood. Moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh milled lumber, estimated 1 to 5 years since harvesting.
- Sustainability Status
- 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, and barrel making due to closed cellular structure.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high density and reacts with iron causing dark stains.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, and varnishes well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing over time.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood which plug the pores and make it water-resistant, high tannin content which makes it reactive to metals.
