White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and fairly coarse/open grain with prominent cathedral figure. Shows medium to large pores and visible medullary rays.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden tone with age and sunlight exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in heartwood. Good resistance to insects.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced rough lumber, likely dried within the last 1-2 years based on the lack of oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Widely available and generally harvested sustainably; FSC certification often available.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools. Has high shrinkage; requires care in gluing. Reacts with iron-based fasteners to create blue/black stains.
Notable Features
Faint, characteristic scent when working. High tannin content. Contains tyloses, making it waterproof and ideal for tight cooperage.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are recommended to enhance the grain density. Sand to 180-220 grit for best results.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive ring-porous grain structure, olive-brown color, and visible ray flecks are consistent with North American White Oak.