White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses in the pores)
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Grain Pattern
Straight, quarter-sawn with prominent medullary ray flecks
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast and pale yellowish-white sapwood, medium luster, darkens slightly with age and UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses in the pores)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn cut quality
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated relatively recent to modern mill-sawn stock, approximately 5 to 15 years old based on clean surface condition and minimal surface oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with strong FSC-certified options
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels)
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high density and abrasive silica content; glues, stains, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane exceptionally well; water-based finishes help preserve the natural light color while oil-based finishes impart an amber warmth
Notable Features
Contains tyloses which make the wood water-resistant, high tannin content which can react with iron and steel causing dark stains, distinct silver grain flecks on quarter-sawn surfaces
