White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Visible large pores and prominent rays characteristic of a rift or flat-sawn oak board.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light cream to light brown. The sample shows a dark surface stain or finish with light natural wood exposed in the center.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores; commonly used for boat building and tight cooperage.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), interior trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (5-20 years); the sharp mechanical cut marks, drill hole, and consistent coloration suggesting contemporary manufacturing.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably managed in North America; FSC certification common.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools. Has a moderately high shrinkage rate. Can react with iron fasteners (causing blue/black staining) when wet.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. Contains tyloses which make the wood nearly liquid-impermeable. High tannin content can cause corrosion in unprotected metal fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are recommended for flooring or furniture to highlight the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the large open pores, color of the raw wood, and the characteristic grain structure are indicative of the White Oak group.