White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and coarse grain with a cathedral figure visible due to the flat-sawn cut; contains characteristic large pores and medium-to-large medullary rays.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is slightly lighter. Tends to darken and become more golden-brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high rot and decay resistance due to the presence of tyloses in heartwood pores; excellent for outdoor or wet applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on width and grade
Wood Age Estimate
Modern stock; likely kiln-dried and processed within the last 1-5 years based on the lack of oxidation and fresh surfacing.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with FSC certification; generally considered sustainable and non-endangered.
Workability
Good workability with hand and machine tools, though it has high shrinkage. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) when wet due to high tannin content. Pre-boring is recommended.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'whisky' scent when worked; high tannin content; tyloses make the wood water-tight; can be an irritant (sensitizer) to some people.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well; oil-based polyurethanes or penetrating oils are excellent for bringing out the depth of grain. Use a sealer if iron contamination is a risk.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive open grain structure, light tan-olive color, and visible ray fleck are textbook characteristics of White Oak.