Likely White Oak, with Red Oak as an alternative — Quercus alba; alternative Quercus rubra

Likely White Oak, with Red Oak as an alternative

Quercus alba; alternative Quercus rubra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Appalachian, Midwest, and eastern United States.
Hardness
White Oak: about 1,360 lbf Janka — Hard
Durability
Durable; heartwood has good decay resistance and moderate insect resistance, while sapwood is less resistant.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, coarse grain with prominent cathedral-like variation; appears flat-sawn or plain-sawn. No clear ray fleck is visible.

Color & Appearance

Pale tan to light gray-brown, with darker streaking and subdued luster. White Oak commonly develops a warmer amber-brown tone with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

White Oak: about 1,360 lbf Janka — Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable; heartwood has good decay resistance and moderate insect resistance, while sapwood is less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$6–12 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried White Oak; figured or premium stock may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears freshly machined or lightly aged; visible color variation is insufficient to estimate tree or board age.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, architectural millwork, barrels, veneer, and general construction.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Appalachian, Midwest, and eastern United States.

Workability

Machines and sands reasonably well but can show tearout on figured or reversing grain; predrilling is useful, and tannins may darken with iron contact.

Finish Recommendations

Apply a sanding sealer, oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; water-based finishes preserve the pale color, while oil adds warmth.

Notable Features

Open pores, strong grain, substantial weight, and characteristic oak ray structure, though rays are not prominent in this view.

Learn more about Likely White Oak, with Red Oak as an alternative in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 21, 2026