White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America.
- Hardness
- 1,350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures and tyloses.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a prominent cathedral pattern typical of flat-sawn or rotary-cut veneer.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with grayish undertones and subtle variation across the growth rings. Exhibits moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay due to closed cellular structures and tyloses.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, approximately $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot for standard lumber, varying for veneer.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern to contemporary stock, likely processed within the last 5 to 15 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN. Widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, boat building, and tight cooperage (barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide range of finishes including polyurethane, lacquer, varnish, and oils. Pre-staining conditioners can help achieve even color absorption.
Notable Features
High tannin content which reacts strongly with iron (causing black staining). Contains closed cellular pores sealed with tyloses.
