White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible in the open-pored texture and prominent rays
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; sapwood is off-white to light brown. Darkens slightly with age to a more golden amber
Hardness Rating
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood pores
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and cut
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears modern with surface scuffing, likely 10-30 years old based on oxidation and wear
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed and classified on the IUCN Red List as a species of least concern; widely available as FSC certified
Workability
Excellent with machine and hand tools, though it has high shrinkage; glues and finishes well, but can react with iron fasteners
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut; contains high tannin content which can cause stains if in contact with iron and water
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, polyurethane, or lacquer; accepts stains well but looks best with clear coats to highlight grain
Identification Confidence
High; the open-pore structure, visible medullary rays, and characteristic golden-tan color are definitive indicators of Quercus alba