White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent growth rings and distinct quarter-sawn or rift-sawn ray fleck patterns visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood, sometimes with an olive cast; whitish to light brown sapwood. Tends to darken slightly to a richer amber color over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn figure
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut or modern milled sample (less than 1 year old), showing no significant patina or aging indicators
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern according to the IUCN, widely available from sustainably managed forests with FSC certification options
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally good workability; responds well to hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to silica content. High tannin content can react with iron to cause dark blue-black stains.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing, while oil-based finishes enhance the natural warm amber tones.
Notable Features
Closed cellular structure due to tyloses in the heartwood making it water-resistant; high tannin content; prominent ray fleck figures when quarter-sawn
