White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with high resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses present in the wood cells.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture, showing typical flat-sawn cathedral patterns and visible ray fleck in quartered areas.
Color & Appearance
Light brown to pale yellowish-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood, exhibiting moderate natural luster and darkening slightly to a warm amber patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with high resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses present in the wood cells.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, showing light oxidation and typical rough-sawn mill marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status on the IUCN Red List, widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, tight cooperage for barrels.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can dull cutting edges due to high density and requires pre-boring for screws.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes exceptionally well; water-based finishes help prevent excessive ambering if desired.
Notable Features
Contains closed-cell tyloses making it water-resistant; high tannin content which can react with iron to cause black staining.
