White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse texture with straight, open grain; end grain shows distinct large earlywood pores and long, prominent medullary rays characteristic of Quercus species.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with a slightly olive cast; sapwood is light off-white to cream. It develops a darker, richer patina with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-contact applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America and parts of Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and cut (e.g., quarter-sawn commands a higher price).
Wood Age Estimate
Approximately 25-35 years old based on the growth ring count visible on the cross-section.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable; FSC certification is common.
Workability
Excellent results with hand and machine tools; responds well to steam bending; high tannin content can cause corrosion with iron fasteners and potential discoloration.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'whiskey' scent when freshly cut; contains high levels of tannins; pores are blocked by tyloses, making it liquid-tight.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil, polyurethane, and wax. Staining can be challenging due to large pores; use of a grain filler is common for a smooth finish.
Identification Confidence
High; the presence of broad medullary rays, large ring-porous earlywood, and the classic rough bark texture is diagnostic for the White Oak group.