White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Features prominent vertical lines from open pores and occasional medullary rays characteristic of quartersawn or rift-sawn cuts.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; sapwood is lighter white to light brown. Finishes often darken or yellow with age, showing moderate luster under light.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores that make it nearly waterproof.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and cut.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a finished piece of furniture or flooring, likely 10-30 years old based on the patina and slight surface wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending, glues well, and takes stains and finishes easily.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when worked; high tannin content can cause blue-black staining if it comes into contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; oil-based finishes highlight the grain. If open-pore look is not desired, a grain filler is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible open pores, straight grain structure, and characteristic 'wheat' color are hallmarks of North American White Oak.