White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with quarter-sawn and plain-sawn elements, featuring characteristic prominent medullary rays and slight weathering texture.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with grayish undertones and dark oxidation marks around nail holes; moderate luster and patination from age.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot for high-grade reclaimed material
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 50 to 100+ years old, indicated by the weathered surface, oxidation around historical fasteners, and deep patination.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List. Highly sustainable when sourced as reclaimed or FSC-certified lumber.
Common Uses
Reclaimed furniture, flooring, timber framing, cabinetry, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to hardness and silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to form dark stains.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, and hardwax oils work exceptionally well. Care should be taken to clean out old fastener holes and neutralize any iron stains before finishing.
Notable Features
High tannin content which provides natural resistance to rot and decay; closed cellular structure (tyloses) making it water-resistant; heavy with good dimensional stability.
