White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium to coarse coarse texture, displaying visible medullary rays typical of quarter-sawn or plain-sawn oak.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct paler sapwood. The wood shows moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a richer amber hue over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawing.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50 years old, showing moderate surface oxidation and patina consistent with aged interior lumber.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally of least concern on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, outdoor decking, barrel staves, and timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide range of finishes including oil, polyurethane, lacquer, and varnish. Pre-stain conditioner can help achieve even staining.
Notable Features
Contains high tannin content which reacts with iron to cause dark staining; closed cellular structure makes it naturally water-resistant.
