White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, decay, and moisture due to closed tyloses in pores, moderately resistant to insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight, fine-to-medium uniform grain with vertical rift-sawn orientation showing prominent, short ray flecks and open pores
Color & Appearance
Light tan to pale olive-brown heartwood with minimal color variation, low natural luster, darkens slightly to a richer golden-brown with light exposure over time
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, decay, and moisture due to closed tyloses in pores, moderately resistant to insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $14.00 per board foot for Select & Better rift-sawn stock
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled/surfaced lumber, under 5 years old based on clean edges, bright color, and absence of oxidation patina
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Least Concern, widespread availability, non-CITES listed, widely available with FSC certification
Common Uses
Furniture, fine cabinetry, architectural millwork, hardwood flooring, boat building, wine barrels, and interior trim
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good workability with machine tools; hard density requires sharp carbide cutters to avoid burning, turns and glues well, pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
Finish Recommendations
Responds exceptionally well to film finishes such as polyurethane, conversion varnish, or lacquer; accepts stains evenly, though grain fillers may be used if a dead-flat smooth finish is desired
Notable Features
High tannin content that reacts with iron tools to form blue-black stains, distinct spicy/sour aroma when freshly cut, excellent dimensional stability when rift-sawn
