White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to decay, rot, and moisture due to tyloses in heartwood pores
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent cathedral grain patterns, coarse texture, and distinct ray flecks visible near the edges
Color & Appearance
Light to medium tan/beige with olive-brown undertones; sapwood is pale cream to off-white. Darkens slightly to a richer golden amber with exposure to light
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to decay, rot, and moisture due to tyloses in heartwood pores
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently surfaced and milled dimensional lumber, under 1 year old since planing
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with sustainable harvesting practices and FSC certification options
Common Uses
Cabinetry, fine furniture, hardwood flooring, barrel cooperage, boat building, millwork, and interior joinery
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good workability with hand and power tools; responds well to steam bending; may cause blunting of dull edges due to hardness; high tannin content requires care around iron fasteners to prevent dark blue/black staining
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and finishes exceptionally well; clear polyurethanes, oil-based varnishes, or hardwax oils highlight the prominent grain structure; pore filling recommended if an ultra-smooth finish is desired
Notable Features
Closed pore structure from tyloses making it water-impermeable, high tannin content with a faint slightly sour aroma when freshly cut
