White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, highly resistant to rot and insect attack due to closed cellular structure (tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture, displaying quarter-sawn ray fleck patterns
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast, and whitish to light-brown sapwood; darkens slightly over time with amber tones
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, highly resistant to rot and insect attack 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-sawing
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years based on seasoning, cut marks, and natural oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists; widely abundant and sustainably managed in North America (FSC available)
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, tight cooperage (barrels)
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters; glues, stains, and finishes well, though high tannin content can react with iron
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane exceptionally well; non-reactive finishes recommended if preventing iron-tannin discoloration
Notable Features
High tannin content, closed pores (tyloses) making it water-resistant, excellent bending properties
