White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to decay and rot, highly suitable for exterior and wet applications due to closed cellular structure)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a mix of flat-sawn and prominent ray fleck indications from quarter-sawn orientation, characteristic rough-sawn surface marks visible across the face
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a lighter grayish-brown sapwood, developing a warmer amber patina over time upon light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to decay and rot, highly suitable for exterior and wet applications due to closed cellular structure)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.50 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled to moderately aged (rough-sawn board showing fresh milling marks combined with mild surface oxidation)
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested with FSC certification options
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally good workability with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high density and contains high tannin content which reacts with iron
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well; water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing, while oil-based finishes enhance the natural grain depth
Notable Features
Contains tyloses that plug pores making it water-resistant, high tannin content which causes corrosion when in contact with ungalvanized steel
