White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
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Grain Pattern
Quarter-sawn with prominent medullary ray flecks (flakes)
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with occasional grayish tones; sapwood is lighter. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a rich amber over time.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to closed cellular structure (tyloses).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot for select quarter-sawn lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old based on the patina and well-established ray fleck patterns typical of antique mission-era furniture.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Widely available, sustainably harvested, and frequently FSC certified.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, quarter-sawn flooring, boat building, mission-style furniture, and tight cooperage (barrels).
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters due to its hardness. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to form blue-black stains.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well. Danish oil or water-based polyurethane can highlight the distinctive ray fleck pattern.
Notable Features
Contains high tannin content making it reactive to iron. Features extremely pronounced ray flecks when quarter-sawn, highly valued for Arts and Crafts/Mission style furniture.
