White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse-textured with prominent cathedral figure. Shows a mix of flat-sawn and rift-sawn characteristic of standard flooring grades. Large, open pores and slightly wavy to straight grain depending on the board.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light tan to white. The sample exhibits significant ambering and yellowing due to aged oil-based finish and UV exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it more water-resistant than Red Oak.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for select grade lumber; flooring typically ranges from $4-$8 per square foot depending on grade.
Wood Age Estimate
40-60 years. The narrow plank width (approx. 2.25 inches), substantial oxidation of the finish, and surface wear/scratches suggest mid-20th century installation.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Widely available, sustainable, and frequently FSC certified. Not listed on CITES appendices.
Workability
Excellent results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Due to high tannin content, it can react with iron fasteners (causing blue/black staining) and may require pre-drilling.
Notable Features
Contains high levels of tannins; has a distinctive, slightly acidic scent when being worked; pores are clogged with tyloses which prevents liquid penetration.
Finish Recommendations
Toughening polyurethane is standard for flooring. Responds well to stains, though the natural tannins can cause unevenness if a pre-conditioner isn't used. Water-based finishes will prevent further yellowing.
Identification Confidence
High. The prominent cathedral grain, open pore structure, and the presence of tyloses (implied by the lack of Red Oak's reddish hue beneath the yellowed finish) are classic indicators of North American White Oak flooring.