White Oak (Quarter-sawn)
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with prominent medullary rays (tiger stripes) typical of true quarter-sawn oak. The sample shows a beautiful cathedral-like figure and chatoyant ray flecks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. This sample shows a weathered, grayish patina. It will typically darken and become more golden-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,350 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-tight applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the oxidation level and the rough-sawn surface, the wood appears to be at least 1-3 years post-harvesting, but the tree likely lived 80-120 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification available.
Workability
Generally good with tools, though it has high shrinkage. It responds well to steam bending. Pre-drilling is recommended for nails and screws to avoid splitting. Reacts with iron, causing blue/black staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'oak' scent when worked. High tannin content. Unique medullary rays that are much more prominent than in Red Oak.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or shellac beautifully highlight the ray fleck figure. It takes stains and dyes very well, but requires a filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired due to open pores.
Identification Confidence
High. The presence of large, prominent medullary ray flecks and the specific olive-brown hue are classic diagnostic features of quarter-sawn Quercus alba.