White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows prominent ray flecks and a cathedral pattern typical of flat-sawn or plain-sawn lumber. Large earlywood pores are visible.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter. The sample currently shows a grayish-tan oxidation. Over time, it typically yellows or darkens to a richer amber hue.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in its pores, making it water-resistant. Excellent resistance to insects.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), exterior millwork, and wine/whiskey aging vessels.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern milling. Based on the machining marks and slight surface graying, the sample appears to be 1 to 5 years since milling, showing minor surface oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern. Highly sustainable with wide availability and significant FSC certification options. Not listed on CITES.
Workability
Generally good with machines and hand tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability is a factor. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-boring is recommended for nails and screws.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when wet or cut. High tannin content can cause dark stains if it comes into contact with iron in wet conditions. Closed pores (tyloses) make it liquid-tight.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based varnishes are excellent for flooring. Reacts well to ammonia fuming for a darker, traditional Mission-style look.
Identification Confidence
High. The large, open-pored earlywood paired with the characteristic ray fleck and the specific olive-brown hue are classic identifiers of White Oak.