White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (due to tyloses in the pores making it resistant to rot and moisture)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent growth rings and distinct coarse texture, showing a mix of flat-sawn and rift-sawn characteristics with noticeable checking/splitting along the center.
Color & Appearance
Medium to dark brown heartwood with a weathered, aged patina, enhanced by darker staining in the grain pores; sapwood is lighter yellowish-brown. Luster is low due to age and exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (due to tyloses in the pores making it resistant to rot and moisture)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $12.00 per board foot (higher for specialized reclaimed grades)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old, likely reclaimed architectural timber or old-growth stock based on the deep checking, rich oxidation, and pronounced wear patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern according to the IUCN; widely available, sustainable, and commonly harvested under managed forests and FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), timber framing, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to density and silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but prone to splitting when nailing or screwing near edges.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, hardening oils (like Danish oil or teak oil), lacquer, or shellac. Water-based finishes may require a dewaxed shellac sealer if tannins bleed through.
Notable Features
Contains closed cellular structures called tyloses which make it water-resistant. High tannin content reacts strongly with iron to cause black/blue staining. Distinctive pleasant, traditional oak aroma when freshly cut.
