White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Displays a prominent cathedral figure due to being flat-sawn, with some visible ray fleck potential if quartered.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden hue and may darken slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in puh pores, making it suitable for water-contact applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and veneer.
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
Freshly milled kiln-dried lumber, likely harvested within the last 1-3 years based on lack of oxidation and clean surface.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable and widely available; evaluated as Least Concern by the IUCN; FSC certification commonly available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machine and hand tools. Good gluing and finishing properties. Can react with iron fasteners to cause blue/black staining.
Notable Features
Telltale vinegar-like scent when freshly cut. High tannin content. Contains tyloses which block the pores and make the wood waterproof.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all finishes. Penetrating oils highlight grain, but water-based polys are recommended to prevent excessive yellowing.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive cathedral grain, light olive-brown color, and coarse open-pored texture are classic indicators of Quercus alba.