White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, excellent resistance to rot and decay due to closed cellular structure (tyloses)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent ray fleck (quarter-sawn/rift-sawn appearance)
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with an olive or yellowish cast, sapwood is lighter, moderate natural luster, darkens slightly to an amber tone with age and UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, excellent resistance to rot and decay due to closed cellular structure (tyloses)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or modern stock, estimated 1 to 5 years old based on clean bright surface and light oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, abundant and sustainable, widely available with FSC certification options
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels)
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good overall workability, responds well to hand and machine tools, can burn when routing if feed rate is too slow, high tannin content reacts with iron to cause staining
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well; water-based finishes help prevent excessive ambering
Notable Features
High tannin content, presence of tyloses making the wood water-resistant, abrasive on cutter heads
