White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a rift-sawn to quarter-sawn orientation, displaying prominent medullary rays (flakes) and a linear growth ring pattern.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is near-white to light brown. It has a moderate luster and tends to darken slightly toward a warmer amber tone over time.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses which plug the vascular vessels, making it nearly liquid-proof.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Contemporary cut, likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of deep oxidation and clean, machine-planed edges.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification; highly sustainable.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools. It has moderately high shrinkage, so dimensional stability must be considered. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause dark staining if the wood comes into contact with iron in wet conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well. Penetrating oils, polyurethane, or lacquer are recommended to highlight the ray fleck pattern.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible medullary rays, characteristic pore structure, and light olive-brown coloration are classic diagnostic features of the White Oak group.