White Oak (most likely, based on grain structure and visible ray remnants; alternative: Red Oak or European Oak)
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable; excellent natural resistance to decay, rot, and moisture due to closed tyloses in heartwood pores
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular coarse grain, visible cross-cutting chainsaw kerf marks on a rough-sawn surface with a prominent longitudinal check/crack
Color & Appearance
Pale tan to light grey-brown heartwood with weathered grayish tones; sapwood is slightly lighter, though obscured by rough surface fibers and dust
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; excellent natural resistance to decay, rot, and moisture due to closed tyloses in heartwood pores
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot for wide live-edge slab material
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut to partially seasoned log/slab (0 to 2 years old); shows recent rough chainsaw cuts and drying stress fractures
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably harvested in North America with FSC certification common
Common Uses
Live-edge slabs, heavy timber construction, rustic furniture, flooring, cabinetry, barrels/cooperage, and outdoor structures
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Fair to good; hard density can dull cutting edges quickly, requires sharp tools to prevent burning, sands well after surfacing
Finish Recommendations
Requires initial jointing/planing or slab flattening to remove chainsaw marks, followed by epoxy filling for deep checks/cracks, and finishing with penetrating oil (e.g., Osmo, Rubio Monocoat) or polyurethane
Notable Features
High tannin content which causes dark staining when in contact with iron and moisture; prominent medullary rays when quarter-sawn; distinct oak scent when freshly cut
