White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral patterns with visible coarse texture and large, open pores typical of the ring-porous structure of oak.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; heartwood is darker than the thin, nearly white sapwood. This sample shows significant iron-staining (the dark horizontal line) typical of tannin-rich woods.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and rot, historically used in boat building due to tyloses in the pores.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, wine barrels (cooperage), and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade.
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years (based on the hardware-related iron staining and patina of the finish).
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, though the large pores may require grain filler for a smooth finish.
Notable Features
High tannin content which causes dark blue/black staining when in contact with iron and moisture; distinctive 'oak' scent; contains tyloses which make the wood waterproof.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; oil and wax finishes highlight the grain but may require regular maintenance. Responds well to reactive stains.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of large ring-porous grain, 'cathedral' figure, and the characteristic dark horizontal stain from iron-tannin reaction is diagnostic of White Oak.