White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a mix of flat-sawn cathedral patterns on the side and end-grain pores on top. Visible medullary rays are characteristic of the Quercus genus.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light white to light brown. The sample shows significant ambering (yellowing) due to a polyurethane or oil-based finish over time.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Highly durable and decay resistant. Used frequently in boatbuilding and tight cooperage due to its tyloses, which plug the wood's pores.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (tight cooperage), interior trim, and millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
15-30 years based on the ambering of the top coat and the style of the turned milling.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably harvested in North America. Not listed in CITES appendices.
Workability
Excellent results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can react with iron-based fasteners to cause staining.
Notable Features
Has a distinct, tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause dark staining when in contact with water and iron. End grain features tyloses in the pores.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or oil-based finishes. Because it has open pores, a grain filler is sometimes used for a smooth glass-like finish.
Identification Confidence
High; the large open pores, visible medullary rays, and color consistent with aged White Oak are diagnostic for this species in domestic millwork.