White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure with tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture, featuring a plain-sawn/flat-sawn face with distinct growth ring boundaries.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct paler sapwood band visible on the edges. Tends to darken slightly to a warm amber tone upon exposure to UV light and air.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure with tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or dried lumber, approximately 1-5 years old based on clean surfaces and light oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices, of least concern on the IUCN Red List, widely available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron (causing dark stains) in the presence of moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil-based finishes, polyurethane, lacquers, and varnishes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes can be used if non-yellowing appearance is desired.
Notable Features
High tannin content which provides natural resistance to fungi and insects, and makes it reactive to ammonia fuming. Contains closed cellular tyloses making it water-resistant.
