White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable (Very resistant to decay and rot, highly suitable for outdoor and boat applications due to closed cellular structure)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent coarse texture and visible growth rings, typical of plain-sawn or live-edge lumber.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast; paler sapwood. Tends to darken slightly to a warm amber with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (Very resistant to decay and rot, highly suitable for outdoor and boat applications due to closed cellular structure)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Rough-sawn lumber stock, estimated recently milled to a few years old based on surface oxidation and minimal weathering.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices, low concern on IUCN Red List, widely available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, barrel making (cooperage), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to silica content. Responds very well to steam bending, glues, stains, and screws well with pre-boring.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Water-based finishes help retain the natural lighter color, while oil-based finishes impart a warm amber hue.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it water-resistant (impermeable to liquids), high tannin content which reacts strongly with iron to cause staining.
