White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a prominent cathedral figure visible on the flat-sawn face. Characteristics include medium-to-large pores and distinct growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light off-white to light brown. It tends to darken slightly over time to a more golden tone; low to medium luster.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood which make the wood nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
5-10 years post-harvest; the wood shows light oxidation and a clean surface without significant deep-set patina or heavy wear markings.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. It has a moderately high shrinkage rate resulting in mediocre dimensional stability. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) when wet; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic odor when being worked. Contains high levels of tannic acid. The presence of tyloses in its pores makes it suitable for water-tight applications like wine barrels.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though large pores may require a grain filler for a glass-smooth surface. Penetrating oils, polyurethane, and lacquer are all highly effective.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible large-pored ring-porous structure, characteristic light-brown-to-olive color, and cathedral grain figure are classic markers of White Oak.