White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows prominent radial marks from rough milling, which resemble medullary rays common in quarter-sawn oak.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is lighter, though less distinct in weathered/rough-sawn states. Tends to darken and become more amber with light exposure and age.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the pores, which make the wood nearly liquid-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (subject to local availability and grade)
Wood Age Estimate
Modern rough-sawn stock. The surface exhibits fresh saw marks and minimal oxidation, likely aged 1-5 years post-milling.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Relatively easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well, though large pores may requires filling for a smooth surface.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when wet. High tannin content can cause dark stains when in contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes highlight the grain best; polyurethane for durability. Penetrating oils like tung or linseed are common for furniture.
Identification Confidence
High. The ring-porous structure visible in the rough grain, the distinct tan-gold-olive hue, and the presence of prominent ray flecks are hallmarks of White Oak.