White Oak (Likely based on ring-porous grain structure and prominent medullary rays)
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to decay and rot due to tyloses in pores; good insect resistance
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn to rift-sawn pattern with coarse texture, visible ring-porous growth bands, and wide medullary rays
Color & Appearance
Medium light brown to tan heartwood with subtle grayish or olive undertones, low to moderate natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to decay and rot due to tyloses in pores; good insect resistance
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on grade, thickness, and figure
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be reliably determined due to extreme image blur, but shows standard aged surface patina
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List status of Least Concern; widely available and sustainably harvested with FSC certification
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, flooring, boatbuilding, barrel cooperage, architectural millwork, trim
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Works well with hand and machine tools, though high density causes moderate blade dulling; glues, screws, and holds nails well; pre-boring recommended
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including stain, oil, polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac; wipe-on poly or Danish oil highlights grain detail well
Notable Features
Closed pore structure (tyloses) makes it waterproof; high tannin content can react with iron tools/fasteners causing blue-black staining
