White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a medium to large texture; visible medullary rays suggest rift or quarter-sawn orientation resulting in slight flecking
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; sapwood is nearly white to light tan. Highly lustrous surface that darkens slightly to an amber hue with age and UV exposure
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to heartwood rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores; often used for water-tight applications
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and tool handles
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
6.00 to 10.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced (0-2 years since machining) based on the bright color and lack of deep oxidation or patina
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available as FSC certified; very sustainable and abundant in North American forests
Workability
Excellent results with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending; gluings, stains, and finishes well, though its high tannin content can react with iron fasteners causing dark staining
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut; contains tyloses which make the heartwood waterproof; high tannin content makes it suitable for fuming with ammonia to darken the wood
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; polyurethane or oil-based varnishes are recommended for durability; penetrating oils highlight the medullary rays effectively
Identification Confidence
High; the visible open pores, characteristic tan/olive coloration, and prominent medullary ray tracers are defining markers of the White Oak group