White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to closed cellular structure with tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture, featuring prominent knots and rustic rustic character marks.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct paler sapwood, displaying good natural luster and darkening slightly to a warm amber patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to closed cellular structure with tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and knotty/rustic character
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated at 10 to 30 years as a recently milled or finished board with mild surface aging.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with strong sustainable forestry and FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, rustic shelving, boat building, and interior architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to hardness and silica; glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, polyurethane, water-based finishes, and lacquer exceptionally well; requires non-iron fasteners to prevent tannin staining.
Notable Features
High tannin content which can react with iron to cause staining, closed cellular structure making it resistant to liquid penetration, and distinct prominent growth rings.
