White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with coarse, uneven texture. Showing flat-sawn cathedral patterns and prominent ray fleck characteristic of the Quercus genus.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is near-white to light brown. Finishes to a warm honey-amber over time.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores which make it water-resistant.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (standard grade)
Wood Age Estimate
The finished tabletop appears to be contemporary commercial furniture, likely less than 10-15 years old based on the film-forming finish and wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified sources are common.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it has high shrinkage values.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when wet. High tannin content can react with iron to cause blue-black staining. Famous for its use in aging whiskey and wine.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for commercial tabletops (as seen in image) to provide moisture resistance. Pre-stain conditioner helps with even staining.
Identification Confidence
High; the large open pores, distinct growth rings, and characteristic color/grain of North American Oak are clearly visible under the finish.