White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure (tyloses), making it traditionally popular for outdoor and marine use.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent, open pores and distinct growth rings; quarter-sawn appearance showing characteristic medullary rays (flakes).
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish or yellowish cast, and paler sapwood. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a rich amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure (tyloses), making it traditionally popular for outdoor and marine use.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a recently milled or modern rough-sawn board, likely less to a few years old, showing standard surface milling marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed and of least concern on the IUCN Red List. Readily available through sustainable forestry and FSC certification programs.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high tannin content which can react with iron and cause staining. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oils, varnishes, polyurethane, and lacquers. Water-based finishes may slightly raise the grain but help preserve the natural light color.
Notable Features
High tannin content which provides natural rot resistance and reacts chemically with ferrous metals to produce a dark blue-black stain. Contains tyloses that plug the pores.
