White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, with a coarse, uneven texture. The end grain shows prominent, large earlywood pores and long medullary rays typical of the White Oak group.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish/olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Finishes slightly darker with age.
Hardness Rating
1,350 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood pores which make the wood liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, boatbuilding, barrels (tight cooperage), and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Eastern Northern America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Fresh cut (Green); based on the bright color of the wood fibers, moisture sheen, and lack of oxidation on the cross-section.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Excellent results with hand and machine tools, though it has a moderately high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Characteristic oak scent; high tannin content can cause blue/black staining when in contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well. Oils, polyurethane, or lacquer are recommended to highlight the grain and provide protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the end grain shows the distinct ring-porous structure and long, prominent medullary rays characteristic of Quercus species, and the color aligns with the white oak group.