White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks due to closed cellular structures (tylose).
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture and prominent growth rings visible in live-sawn or plain-sawn cuts.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is a lighter white to cream color. Luster is medium and wood darkens slightly to a rich amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks due to closed cellular structures (tylose).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and kiln-dried status
- Wood Age Estimate
- Rough-sawn lumber sample estimated to be freshly milled to a few years old, displaying typical weathering on exposed outer bark edges.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, boat building, exterior construction, cooperage (barrels), and timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Good overall workability; responds well to hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutters quickly. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but prone to staining if iron reacts with its high tannin content.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, varnish, penetrating oils, and water-based finishes all perform well. Pre-conditioning or sealers may be used to achieve uniform staining.
Notable Features
High tannin content makes it naturally resistant to decay and reactive with iron; features extensive tyloses that make the wood water-resistant.
