White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Visible cathedral patterns in flat-sawn sections and characteristic large rays (ray fleck) when quarter-sawn.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast; sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden tone and tends to amber slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores that make the wood nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, boatbuilding, barrels (tight cooperage), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on cut and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; likely harvested within the last 10-20 years based on the uniform surface prep and contemporary finish clarity.
Sustainability Status
Abundant and sustainable; wide FSC availability; not listed on CITES or the IUCN Red List.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has a moderately high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when worked; high tannin content can cause dark staining if in contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based polyurethanes or reactive oils to enhance depth; sealers are recommended to prevent tannin pull if using water-based finishes.
Identification Confidence
High; identified by the characteristic ring-porous grain structure, color palette, and visible medullary rays typical of the Quercus genus.