White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium to coarse texture. Visible large pores and characteristic ray flecks common in quarter-sawn or rift-sawn cuts. Displays circular saw marks and rough-milled surface texture.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light off-white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden honey color; oxidizes slightly darker with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in heartwood pores which make it nearly waterproof.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern rough-sawn lumber, likely harvested and milled within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of deep oxidation and fresh appearance of saw marks.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally managed sustainably; FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a smooth surface.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause blue-black staining if it comes into contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or polyurethane to highlight grain. Responds very well to 'fuming' with ammonia to darken the wood.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible open-pored structure, color, and specific grain texture are prototypical for American White Oak, particularly in a rough-milled state.