White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (due to closed cellular structure and tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent quarter-sawn ray fleck (medullary rays)
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with an olive or yellowish cast; sapwood is lighter in color; medium natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (due to closed cellular structure and tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn selection
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern kiln-dried lumber, estimated 1 to 5 years old
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List, widely available with FSC certification options
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, mission-style furniture, barrels, and interior millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters; glues, stains, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well; water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores making it water-resistant; high tannin content which can react with iron to cause dark stains
