White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Quarter-sawn grain showing prominent medullary ray flecks and flakes; tight, straight grain with a coarse but uniform texture. Minimal cathedral figure due to the radial cut.
Color Description
Light to medium tan heartwood with a distinct grayish cast; lighter sapwood. Shows moderate luster and will develop a deeper amber patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it nearly waterproof.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, wine barrels, flooring, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot for quarter-sawn select grade
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced recently; bright color with minimal oxidation and visible machine sanding/planing marks suggest it is new stock.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Gluing, staining, and finishing are generally easy.
Notable Features
Tyloses in pores make it suitable for liquids (cooperage); high tannin content can cause dark stains if it comes into contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or waxes to highlight ray fleck figure; polyurethane or lacquer for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the presence of distinct, long medullary rays (flecking) on a quarter-sawn face combined with the characteristic tan/gray color is diagnostic of White Oak.