White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with excellent resistance to decay, rot, and moisture thanks to closed cellular structures (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent ring-porous structure and visible broad rays on the quartered face; plain-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face below.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive or yellowish cast, and a distinct lighter sapwood. Moderate natural luster that darkens slightly to a rich amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with excellent resistance to decay, rot, and moisture thanks to closed cellular structures (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated freshly milled to recently seasoned lumber (under 5 years old), showing bright clean end grain and minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern according to the IUCN Red List. Widely available, sustainably managed in North American forests, and often FSC certified.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrel making), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it has a moderate blunting effect on cutters due to high density. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to cause black discoloration.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide range of finishes including oil, polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing, while oil-based finishes enhance the warm amber tones.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses that plug the pores, making the wood water-resistant and impervious to liquids, historically used for liquid-holding barrels. High tannin content.
