White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to somewhat irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Visible large earlywood pores and prominent, long medullary rays typical of the Quercus genus.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light tan to nearly white. The sample shows typical golden-brown oxidation from air exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,350 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to decay and rot due to the presence of tyloses which plug the vessels. Excellent for outdoor applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot for select grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly felled to several months old based on the presence of radial drying checks (shakes) and limited surface graying. Ring count suggests a tree between 40-60 years old.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainable; FSC certified sources common.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, though can react with iron fasteners (tannin staining).
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when wet. Contains high levels of tannins. Pores are filled with tyloses, making the wood waterproof and suitable for liquid storage.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes enhance the figure; takes stains well. Penetrating oils or polyurethane provide the best protection for high-wear areas.
Identification Confidence
High. The prominent medullary rays, ring-porous structure visible in the end grain, and classic olive-brown coloration are definitive indicators of White Oak.