White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a flat-sawn (plain-sawn) orientation showing large, open pores and characteristic cathedral patterns in some sections. Features prominent medullary rays and occasional knots.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light off-white to light brown. The sample shows significant graying/silvering on the exterior due to UV oxidation and weathering, while freshly planed areas reveal the true tan/brown interior.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High rot resistance and excellent decay resistance. Historically used in shipbuilding because of its water-tight tyloses in the pores.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), heavy construction, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The board itself appears to be reclaimed or air-dried for several years (5-20 years) based on the deep gray oxidation and check marks. Tree age at harvest likely exceeded 60-80 years based on growth ring density.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainable in its native range. Often available with FSC certification.
Workability
Relatively easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Prone to splintering and has a moderate blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked; high tannin content can cause dark stains if the wood comes into contact with iron and moisture. Contains tyloses which make the wood waterproof.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based finishes that highlight the grain, or polyurethane for protection. Requires wood filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired due to open pores.
Identification Confidence
High. The large open pores, color shift from weathered gray to tan, the specific splintering pattern of the shavings, and the visible medullary rays are diagnostic of the white oak group.