White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse, and open-grained with prominent medullary rays. The sample exhibits a rift-sawn to quarter-sawn appearance with distinct vertical lines and minimal cathedral formation.
Color Description
Light to medium tan or light brown heartwood with a grayish cast. Sapwood is nearly white to off-white. The surface shows a high natural luster and the wood typically darkens to a richer amber/brown tone with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores that make the wood nearly water-tight. Good resistance to insects.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, barrels (cooperage), outdoor decking, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on width and grade (select/better).
Wood Age Estimate
Recently processed; the crisp edges and lack of significant oxidation or surface patina suggest a kiln-dried board of less than 1-2 years since surfacing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high shrinkage rate. Responds well to steam bending. Pre-drilling is recommended for screws to avoid splitting.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when cut. Large, visible pores and medullary rays. High tannin content can react with iron/steel to create blue-black stains. Relatively heavy and strong.
Finish Recommendations
Takes a wide range of finishes well, including oil, polyurethane, and wax. Stains well, though the open grain may benefit from a grain filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the tan-gray color, large open pores, and straight grain pattern characteristic of the white oak family is clearly visible.