White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with a prominent cathedral figure, medium to coarse texture, and straight grain. Small circular knot visible in the upper center.
Color Description
Light to medium tan or light brown. Sapwood is slightly lighter cream-colored. Aging can lead to a slight amber or yellowing patina under UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and rot due to tyloses in hand-grain pores which block moisture.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, wine barrels, trim, and construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern stock (likely under 10 years) based on lack of deep oxidation and the rough-milled industrial surface texture.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainable; FSC certification commonly available.
Workability
Generally works well with hand and machine tools, though it has high shrinkage. Responds well to steam bending. Gluing, staining, and finishing are typically excellent.
Notable Features
High tannin content (can react with iron to cause black staining), distinct spicy scent when worked, and large visible rays.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are recommended to highlight the grain. Reacts well to fuming with ammonia to darken the color naturally.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of ring-porous grain structure, tan color, and characteristic cathedral figure is indicative of Quercus species, specifically the white oak group.