White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America.
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structures (tyloses), making it traditionally popular for exterior and marine applications.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a prominent coarse texture and visible growth rings, exhibiting a mix of plain-sawn and quarter-sawn visual characteristics on the surface.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish or yellowish cast, and paler sapwood. The color tends to darken slightly to a rich amber honey hue with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structures (tyloses), making it traditionally popular for exterior and marine applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate to high, typically ranging from $5.00 to $10.00+ per board foot depending on grade and whether it is plain or quarter-sawn.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned, likely between 5 to 20 years old based on the stable surface patina and modern milling marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Readily available and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, exterior doors, barrel staves, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to split when nailed (pre-drilling recommended). Reacts with iron (tannin staining) when wet.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, polyurethane, and varnishes exceptionally well. Water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color, while oil-based finishes enhance warm amber tones.
Notable Features
Contains high levels of tannins which provide natural decay resistance, but can cause dark stains when in contact with iron in the presence of moisture.
