White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn (plain-sawn) orientation creating characteristic cathedral patterns, though these strips are narrower. Large, visible pores are present.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; sapwood is light off-white to light brown. It tends to darken or yellow slightly over time with UV exposure. Very common slight grayish tint in the heartwood.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood which block the passage of liquids.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional market.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut (0-5 years); the wood appears freshly milled with no significant oxidation, wear, or patina consistent with reclaimed materials.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Excellent results with machine and hand tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-boring for screws is recommended.
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
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are standard for durability. If staining, a wood conditioner can help with evenness, though oak generally takes stain more uniformly than maple.
Identification Confidence
High; the open pore structure, characteristic color, and grain flake are hallmarks of White Oak, distinguishing it from Red Oak by the absence of pinkish tones and more closed vessel structure.