White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a rift-sawn to quarter-sawn appearance. It shows characteristic long, vertical rays and a tight, uniform texture across the face.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light tan to near white. It develops a deeper amber patina over time and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the pores, making it water-resistant.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on cut (rift/quarter-sawn) and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern; the surface appears to be a contemporary veneer or recently processed panel based on the uniformity and lack of deep oxidation/patina.
Sustainability Status
Lest Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue if not dried properly. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) when wet.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when working; contains high levels of tyloses which plug the vessels, making it ideal for liquids; low toxicity but can be a sensitizer for some.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes beautifully. Penetrating oils or clear polyurethanes are recommended to highlight the grain. Avoid iron-based stains unless a blackened effect is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible open pores, straight grain, and unique olive-tan hue are highly diagnostic of the Quercus genus, specifically the white oak group.