White Oak (Quarter-sawn/Rift-sawn rough lumber)
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses blocking heartwood pores; good moisture and insect resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, tight grain visible beneath saw marks; vertical quarter-sawn fleck orientation visible with prominent ray cells and fine uniform growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium tan/golden brown with slight olive-straw undertones. Heartwood typically darkens slightly with UV exposure, taking on a deeper amber-brown patina.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses blocking heartwood pores; good moisture and insect resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (varies depending on thickness, quarter-sawn figure quality, and regional availability).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern cut rough-sawn lumber (1-5 years post-milling), freshly milled or stored kiln-dried stock showing minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Abundant and sustainably managed in North America; widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, barrel cooperage (wine and whiskey), boat building, architectural millwork, and timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Workability
Works well with hand and machine tools, though high density causes moderate dulling of cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes extremely well. Steam-bends exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Requires initial surfacing/planing to remove rough-sawn marks. Accepts oil-based finishes, polyurethane, lacquer, and hardwax oils exceptionally well. Pre-conditioner optional.
Notable Features
Tyloses in pores make it water-resistant; high tannin content reacts with iron to turn dark blue-black when wet; distinct pleasant earthy smell when worked.
