Chestnut Oak
Quercus montana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse, uneven texture with straight grain; cross-section shows prominent radial rays consistent with the White Oak group.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is yellowish or off-white. The exposed end grain shows graying from oxidation and moisture.
Hardness Rating
1,340 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for tight cooperage and outdoor use.
Common Uses
Piling, railroad ties, flooring, construction lumber, cabinetry, furniture, and fence posts.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States, particularly the Appalachian Mountains.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
The log appears to be from a tree approximately 40-60 years old; the cut surface shows recent weathering (weeks to months) indicated by checking and surface oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. FSC certification is common for this species.
Workability
Generally good with machine and hand tools. Like other oaks, it has a high shrinkage rate and can cause significant wear on cutting edges. Responds well to steam bending.
Notable Features
Distinguished by its exceptionally thick, blocky, deeply furrowed bark. Contains high tannin content which can react with iron to create black stains.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Because of its large open pores, a grain filler is recommended if a smooth glass-like surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the deeply ridged 'alligator' bark combined with the visible large radial rays on the end grain are definitive diagnostic features of Quercus montana.