White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (excellent resistance to decay and moisture due to tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with distinct growth rings and prominent ray fleck visible on quarter-sawn surfaces
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish or yellowish cast, and paler sapwood; darkens slightly with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (excellent resistance to decay and moisture due to tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and cut
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated several decades based on oxidation and seasoning checks
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists; widely abundant and sustainably harvested in North America
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, tight cooperage (barrels)
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has high shrinkage and can react with iron to cause dark stains
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethanes very well; water-based finishes help prevent excessive yellowing
Notable Features
Contains tyloses which plug the pores making it water-resistant; high tannin content
