White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable (good resistance to rot and decay due to closed cellular structure with tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with distinct growth rings and visible medullary rays, characteristic of quartersawn or plainsawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish-brown sapwood, exhibiting moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (good resistance to rot and decay due to closed cellular structure with tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard grades
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years based on surface oxidation and typical lumber processing marks
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, barrel making (cooperage)
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to hardness; glues, stains, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil-based finishes, polyurethanes, and varnishes exceptionally well; water-based finishes may raise grain slightly
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood vessels making it water-resistant, high tannin content which can react with iron to cause staining
