White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain; the sample shows characteristic rays consistent with rift-sawn or quarter-sawn orientation, displaying small ray flecks.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. It tends to darken slightly with age and finishes well with a slight luster.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores which make the wood nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on cut and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely 1-10 years since milling based on the clean surface and lack of significant oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. It has a moderately high shrinkage rate, but stays relatively stable once seasoned. Responds well to steam-bending.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when worked; high tannin content can cause dark staining if in contact with iron in wet conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are recommended to highlight the grain while providing protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the open-pored structure, color, and visible medullary rays are distinct hallmarks of the white oak species group.