White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture, showing distinctive growth ring patterns visible on the rough-sawn surface.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct lighter sapwood; exhibits a weathered greyish patina on the exposed surface due to environmental exposure, with moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and kiln-dry status
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated several decades old, indicated by weathering, oxidation, and outdoor exposure patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES appendices; IUCN Least Concern; widely available and sustainably harvested with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, and cooperage (barrels) due to closed cellular structure.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has high tannin content which can react with iron and cause staining. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, varnish, or hardening oils; water-based finishes should be used with caution to avoid tannin bleed-through, requiring a dewaxed shellac sealer if necessary.
Notable Features
High tannin content providing excellent natural rot resistance; tyloses present in the pores make the wood water-resistant and suitable for liquid containment.
