White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a splintery appearance in the sample; characteristic long rays and medium-to-large pores are visible in the split face
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; sapwood is slightly lighter. The sample shows typical golden-hued oxidation and a somewhat dull luster naturally
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and rot due to tyloses in the pores, making it water-resistant
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, cooperage (wine and whiskey barrels), and outdoor construction
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent harvesting (1-3 years old) based on the fresh split surface and minimal deep oxidation or grey weathering
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable
Workability
Works well with tools but has a high shrinkage rate; produces great results with steam bending; reacts with iron to cause staining
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when wet; high tannin content; contains tyloses which plug the vessels and make the wood liquid-tight
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though oil-based finishes are preferred to highlight the ray fleck. Avoid iron-based stains unless a blackened effect is desired
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the light brown color with olive undertones, the visible long rays, and the specific ring-porous texture of the split wood is highly characteristic of the white oak group