White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Features prominent, long wood rays visible as dark axial streaks in this tangential/flat-sawn orientation.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Characterized by a moderate luster that can darken to a golden amber with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses which plug the vascular vessels.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and cut.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; likely less than 20 years old based on the clear film finish and lack of deep oxidation or heavy use wear.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and frequently FSC-certified; not listed in CITES appendices.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, making dimensional stability a consideration. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) when wet.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. Contains high tannin content. Notable for tyloses in pores making it waterproof (unlike Red Oak).
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are recommended to highlight the grain depth. Pore filling may be required for a glass-smooth surface.
Identification Confidence
High; the visible large open pores, dark ray flecks, and yellowish-brown hue are classic diagnostic features of North American White Oak.