White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, especially when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent ray fleck (quarter-sawn appearance showing visible medullary rays)
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a slightly grayish cast; paler sapwood. Color tends to warm up and golden-amber slightly over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, especially when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern to recently milled lumber, showing fresh cut characteristics with minimal surface patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List, widely available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to gluing, screwing, and nailing, though pre-boring is recommended. Can react with iron fasteners to cause black stains due to high tannin content.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, oils, and lacquers exceptionally well. Water-based finishes help preserve the natural lighter color, while oil-based finishes impart a warm amber hue.
Notable Features
High tannin content makes it exceptionally resistant to decay and waterproof (closed cellular structure with tyloses). Reacts with iron to form dark blue/black stains.
