White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain. This sample is flat-sawn displaying characteristic cathedral patterns and prominent, elongated wood rays typical of the Quercus genus.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is near white to light brown. The wood tends to darken slightly with age, developing a richer golden-brown patina.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the heartwood pores which make the wood nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 1-3 years based on the lack of deep oxidation and clean, machine-planed surface appearance.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. It has a moderately high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. It reacts with iron (staining the wood blue/black) and can be difficult to glue if not prepared correctly.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content makes it susceptible to iron staining. Exceptional rot resistance among temperate hardwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for durability. For a traditional look, penetrating oils or shellac work beautifully.
Identification Confidence
High. The ring-porous structure, visible medullary rays, golden-tan color, and classic cathedral grain pattern are quintessential characteristics of North American White Oak.