White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay, featuring closed cellular structures (tyloses) that make it water-resistant.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Ring-porous with distinct growth rings, featuring broad rays visible on the end grain and straight face grain.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct paler sapwood. Medium luster with moderate aging/oxidation to a richer amber hue.
Hardness (Janka)
1,350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay, featuring closed cellular structures (tyloses) that make it water-resistant.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot for standard lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated recently harvested log, approximately 40 to 60 years old based on visible annual growth rings.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant, widely available, of least concern on IUCN Red List, and often FSC certified.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, tight cooperage (barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, polyurethane, oil, and lacquer exceptionally well. Pre-boring is recommended for nailing or screwing.
Notable Features
Contains high levels of tannins, making it reactive with iron (causing staining) and highly resistant to fungal decay due to closed tyloses.
