White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (due to closed cellular structure and tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Quarter-sawn with prominent medullary rays and flake patterns
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with occasional grayish casts; sapwood is lighter in color; darkens slightly to an amber patina with age and UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (due to closed cellular structure and tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber, higher for quarter-sawn selections
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, estimated between 1 to 10 years old based on clean millwork and minimal oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested in North America
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, tight cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork
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 moderate hardness; prone to splitting when nailing so pre-boring is recommended
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well; grain filler can be used for a perfectly smooth surface if desired
Notable Features
Contains tyloses that plug the pores, making the wood water-resistant and suitable for liquid storage; high tannin content which reacts chemically with iron to cause dark staining
