White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture and prominent growth rings visible on the rough-sawn surface.
Color & Appearance
Light brown to yellowish-white sapwood with a slightly darker grayish-brown heartwood, showing significant weathering and fading.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and kiln-dry status
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old based on weathering, rough-sawn condition, and oxidation patterns.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern according to the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainably harvested.
Common Uses
Outdoor construction, boat building, flooring, barrels, furniture, and heavy timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Moderately difficult to work with hand tools due to hardness and density; tends to blunt cutting edges. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, varnish, or penetrating oils work well; requires sealing if exposed to moisture to prevent tannin bleed.
Notable Features
High tannin content which provides excellent natural resistance to rot and decay, and causes staining in contact with iron.
