White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf, Hard
- Durability
- Durable, high resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure (tyloses), moderate insect resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with prominent medullary rays creating distinct flecks (quarter-sawn appearance in many strips), typical strip flooring pattern.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with occasional grayish or reddish casts, distinctive pale to medium tan heartwood, low to medium natural luster, darkens slightly to a warm amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf, Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable, high resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure (tyloses), moderate insect resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn percentage.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years based on modern strip flooring installation style and light wear patterns.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with strong FSC-certified supply.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally good workability with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to hardness; glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to cause discoloration.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, conversion varnish, or penetrating oils; water-based finishes help preserve the lighter natural color without excessive yellowing.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the vessels making it watertight, high tannin content which reacts chemically with iron and steel.
