White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable, excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay, moderate resistance to insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with prominent growth rings and visible medullary rays typical of quartersawn or plain-sawn cuts.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, distinct paler sapwood, moderate natural luster, and a tendency to darken gracefully into a warm amber patina over decades.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay, moderate resistance to insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and cut.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 40 to 80 years based on surface oxidation, wear patterns, and patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely abundant and sustainably harvested.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, boat building, and tight cooperage (barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to density; glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to cause dark blue-black stains.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts oil-based finishes, polyurethane, lacquer, and water-based topcoats well; sanding up to 180 or 220 grit is recommended for a smooth finish.
Notable Features
High tannin content which provides natural decay resistance; closed cellular structure (tylosides) making it water-resistant.
