White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable with excellent rot and insect resistance due to closed cellular structure (tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with pronounced growth rings and visible ray fleck from quarter-sawn elements
Color & Appearance
Medium to dark brown with warm amber undertones, featuring prominent darker grain contrast and an aged patina; minor sapwood differentiation masked by historical finishing
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with excellent rot and insect resistance due to closed cellular structure (tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn figure
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 50 to 100+ years old based on patina, historical staining, and oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, abundant and widely available through sustainable forestry management (FSC certified options readily available)
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, mission-style furniture, and architectural millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Moderate to good; machines and planes well, but high tannin content can react with iron causing discoloration and will dull cutting edges relatively quickly
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, shellac, and polyurethane exceptionally well; water-based finishes may require a non-raising sanding step or seal coat to manage tannins
Notable Features
High tannin content providing natural decay resistance, distinctive ray fleck patterns when quarter-sawn, and closed cellular structure containing tyloses
