White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a porous texture. This sample appears to be rift-sawn or quarter-sawn, showing typical long, linear vessel lines and hints of medullary rays.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter. This specific sample shows significant weathering/oxidizing to a silvery-gray 'driftwood' patina.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it nearly liquid-impermeable.
Common Uses
Boat building, whiskey barrels (cooperage), flooring, cabinetry, furniture, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot (standard); higher for rift-sawn or reclaimed material.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the silvery oxidation and deep-textured grain erosion, this sample appears to be reclaimed or weathered outdoors for 5-15 years.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fair to good. Because it is a hard/dense wood, it can have a dulling effect on blades. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-boring for screws is recommended.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. High tannin content can cause dark stains if it comes into contact with iron and water.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or matte polyurethanes work well. Because of the open pores, grain fillers can be used if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The ring-porous structure, large vessel lines visible in the weathered surface, and characteristic silvery-gray patina are diagnostic of White Oak.