White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse, straight grain with large, open pores. Visible tyloses in heartwood and prominent medullary rays consistent with quarter-sawn sections.
Color Description
Currently weathered to a silvery-gray 'driftwood' patina due to UV exposure; under the surface, it typically ranges from a light to medium brown heartwood with a slight olive cast.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses that plug the vascular system, making it nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, decking, boat building, flooring, cabinetry, barrel making (cooperage), and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and cut.
Wood Age Estimate
5-10 years of outdoor exposure based on the depth of the graying patina and surface fiber separation (silvering).
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification; generally considered highly sustainable.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Requires pre-drilling for screws to avoid splitting.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when wet; high tannin content can cause blue/black staining when in contact with iron fasteners in wet conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Requires thorough sanding to remove weathered gray fibers. Recommended finish includes penetrating oils with UV inhibitors or marine-grade varnish for outdoor longevity.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible large-pored ring-porous structure combined with the specific silvery-gray weathering pattern and resistance to deep rot are signature characteristics of Quercus alba.