White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with prominent growth rings showing a mix of flat-sawn cathedral patterns and quarter-sawn sections with noticeable medullary rays.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct olive or yellowish cast, and paler sapwood. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a rich amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 10.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawing.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years old based on the flooring installation style, wear patterns, and surface finish oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not threatened or CITES listed. Widely available, sustainably harvested, and frequently FSC certified.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to high density. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to cause dark staining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and polyurethane very well. Water-based finishes help preserve the lighter natural color, while oil-based finishes enhance the warm amber tones.
Notable Features
High tannin content makes it naturally resistant to decay and reactive with iron. Contains tyloses that plug the pores, making it water-resistant.
