White Oak (likely)
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, open-pored grain with clear visible rays and small pin knots; appearing flat-sawn with some cathedral peaking.
Color Description
Light to medium tan color with olive-ish undertones; sapwood is slightly lighter. Surfaces show some grayish oxidation and surface contamination/dust.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Contemporary (0-20 years), based on the uniform commercial milling and lack of deep historic patina.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and frequently FSC certified; heartwood is sustainable.
Workability
Good with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate and can be prone to splintering. Responds well to steam bending.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when wet; high tannin content may cause black staining when in contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well; oil-based polyurethane or reactive oils (like Rubio Monocoat) are popular to highlight the grain.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the pore structure, color, and ray flecks are consistent with North American White Oak, though the surface dust makes a 100% positive ID difficult.