White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and coarse with extremely large and prominent medullary rays creating a decorative flake or fleck pattern on the end grain.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter. Natural luster is relatively low; darkens with sunlight and ages to a rich amber tone.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to decay and rot due to tyloses in the pores which make the wood nearly water-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, wine/whiskey barrels (tight cooperage), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and cut (Quarter-sawn is higher value).
Wood Age Estimate
The tree appears to be approximately 35 to 45 years old based on the growth ring count visible on the cross-section.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools, though it has high shrinkage. Glues and finishes well; reacts with iron to cause staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when fresh. High tannin content makes it susceptible to iron staining but excellent for ebonizing. Large medullary rays are its most striking visual feature.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes enhance the figure; takes stains well. Penetrating oils or wipe-on polyurethanes are recommended to highlight the grain and rays.
Identification Confidence
High; the extremely prominent medullary rays and distinct ring-porous structure visible in the end grain are characteristic of the Quercus genus, specifically the White Oak group.