White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in heartwood pores which make it water-resistant.
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Grain Pattern
Strong cathedral grain on face with prominent medullary rays and ring-porous structure; mostly straight but coarse texture.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is slightly lighter. Tends to darken and become more amber with time and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in heartwood pores which make it water-resistant.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and widening.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Fresh cut or recently milled (under 1 year) based on the light color, lack of significant oxidation, and rough-sawn end grain.
- Sustainability Status
- Sustainable; widely available, not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; FSC certified options common.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good with machine and hand tools, though it has high shrinkage. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-boring is recommended for fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based stains or clear polyurethanes. Responds exceptionally well to fuming with ammonia to darken the wood naturally.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when wet; contains high tannin content which can react with iron to create blue-black stains.
