Likely White Oak; alternatives include Red Oak or Ash — Quercus alba (most likely)

Likely White Oak; alternatives include Red Oak or Ash

Quercus alba (most likely) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Appalachian, Midwest, and southern United States.
Hardness
1,360 lbf Janka — Hard
Durability
Durable; white oak heartwood has good rot and weathering resistance and moderate insect resistance, while sapwood is less resistant.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Straight, moderately coarse grain with prominent pale growth lines; appears flat-sawn or rift/combination-sawn, with no special figure visible.

Color & Appearance

Cream to light tan sapwood/heartwood with subtle gray-brown variation and modest luster; typically yellows slightly and deepens with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

1,360 lbf Janka — Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable; white oak heartwood has good rot and weathering resistance and moderate insect resistance, while sapwood is less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $6–$12 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried stock; retail prices vary by thickness, grade, and region.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or lightly aged kiln-dried stock; the clean faces and sharp edges show little visible patina or wear.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, architectural millwork, barrels, veneer, boatbuilding, and general joinery.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Appalachian, Midwest, and southern United States.

Workability

Machines and glues well, though its hardness requires sharp tools; open pores may show tearout, and predrilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively, optionally fill pores for a smooth surface, then use oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; water-based finishes preserve its pale tone.

Notable Features

Open-pored texture, strong ray fleck when quarter-sawn, good dimensional stability, and characteristic oak medullary rays.

Learn more about Likely White Oak; alternatives include Red Oak or Ash in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 31, 2026