White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. In this flat-sawn sample, prominent cathedral figure is visible. The presence of large pores and distinct rays are hallmark features.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light tan to white and is not always sharply demarcated. Tends to darken slightly with age and develop an amber patina under UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-tight applications.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrel making (cooperage), interior trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and specific cut (e.g., quarter-sawn commands higher prices).
Wood Age Estimate
New/Modern stock. The wood appears freshly milled with minimal oxidation and sharp, machine-cut edges, likely less than 5 years since milling.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has a relatively high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Reacts with iron (rust) to cause blue/black staining due to high tannin content.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. Contains tyloses, which plug the vessels and make the wood waterproof/airtight. Known for significant 'fleck' or 'medullary rays' when quarter-sawn.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or lacquer is common for floor/furniture durability. If staining, a pre-conditioner helps even out absorption in the large pores.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible large-pored grain structure, light brown color with characteristic olive/cool undertone, and the specific cathedral arch pattern are textbook indicators of North American White Oak.