White Oak (likely stained or finished to amber)
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight grain with visible cathedral patterns on flat-sawn panels and characteristic medullary rays (flakes) visible on some stiles. Medium to coarse texture with open pores.
Color Description
Natural heartwood is light to medium brown, often with an olive cast. In this application, it displays a medium amber-golden tone due to aged varnish/topcoat. Sapwood is typically light off-white to light brown.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood pores. Highly resistant to liquid penetration.
Common Uses
Commercial and residential cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, furniture, boatbuilding, and cooperage (wine/whiskey barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (standard 4/4 select grade)
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years, based on the style of the commercial mall molding, the yellowing/ambering of the polyurethane or lacquer finish, and minor impact wear at the base.
Sustainability Status
Abundant and sustainable; listed as Least Concern by IUCN. Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent results with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Due to its hardness, sharp carbide-tipped blades are recommended to avoid burning. Glues and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. High tannin content can react with iron to cause blue-black staining. Contains tyloses, which plug the vessels and make the wood waterproof.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for commercial high-traffic areas. Responds beautifully to stains and fuming (ammonia darkening).
Identification Confidence
High; the visible grain structure, presence of medullary rays on quartered sections, and use in high-end commercial millwork are classic indicators of North American White Oak.