White Oak (Quarter-sawn / Rough-sawn)
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. High resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses in pores; good insect resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent, wide medullary rays (ray fleck figure) characteristic of quarter-sawn oak. Surface shows mill saw marks across the grain.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium tan-brown with warm reddish undertones. The sapwood is slightly lighter. Will darken slightly to a deeper golden hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. High resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses in pores; good insect resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade, thickness, and ray fleck figure intensity.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently sawn lumber (under 2 years old), unplaned rough-sawn board.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List). Abundant and sustainably harvested across Eastern US forests. FSC certification widely available.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, barrel cooperage, boatbuilding, interior trim, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good workability with sharp tools. High density requires pre-drilling for screws. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Requires planing/sanding prior to finishing. Excellent results with wiping oils, hardwax oils, polyurethane, or lacquer. Stains well to accentuate ray fleck contrast.
Notable Features
Distinctive large ray flecks on quarter-sawn surfaces, high tannin content (can react with iron to form blue/black stains), closed pore structure (tyloses).
