Bur Oak (White Oak group)
Quercus macrocarpa · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- North America (Central and Eastern United States and South-Central Canada)
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable; high natural resistance to decay, rot, and insect attack due to high tannin content and tyloses blocking pores
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Grain Pattern
Straight to uneven, ring-porous grain with prominent medullary rays visible as fine radial lines; distinct growth rings
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is light to medium tan-brown, aging to a deeper golden brown; sapwood is pale yellow to light greyish-white with thick, rugged, deeply furrowed corky bark
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; high natural resistance to decay, rot, and insect attack due to high tannin content and tyloses blocking pores
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and processing
- Wood Age Estimate
- Tree age approximately 40-60 years based on growth ring count; freshly or recently cut log showing end-grain checking
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List); widely available, sustainable, not CITES restricted
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, fine furniture, barrels/cooperage, heavy construction, posts, turnings, and firewood
Geographic Origin
North America (Central and Eastern United States and South-Central Canada)
Workability
Good workability with hand and machine tools, though high hardness causes moderate blade wear; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well; pre-boring recommended for fasteners
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and oil finishes very well; polyurethane, lacquer, shellac, or hardwax oils highlight the prominent grain structure and rays
Notable Features
Distinctive thick, deeply ridged, cork-like bark; ring-porous end grain structure filled with tyloses; rich in natural tannins
