White Oak (Likely alternative: Red Oak or Birch)
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; excellent natural resistance to decay and moisture rot.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with visible vertical pore streaks consistent with ring-porous or diffuse-porous hardwood cut along the face.
Color & Appearance
Light tan to pale brownish-grey tone with minimal color contrast, typical of dry or untreated white oak heartwood or sapwood.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; excellent natural resistance to decay and moisture rot.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, freshly sawn or lightly sanded raw board; age estimate within 1 to 5 years.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Least Concern; widely available, sustainable harvesting, FSC certification commonly available.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, barrel coopering, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good workability with power tools; takes glue, screws, and nails well. Pre-drilling recommended to prevent splitting.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and oil-based or water-based polyurethane well; pore filler recommended for a smooth high-gloss finish.
Notable Features
High tannin content, distinct ring structure, faint characteristic oak aroma when worked.
