White Oak — Quercus alba

White Oak

Quercus alba · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America
Hardness
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability
Very Durable with high resistance to decay and moisture penetration due to closed cellular tyloses.

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Grain Pattern

Straight grain with distinct growth rings and prominent ring-porous end-grain structure.

Color & Appearance

Light brown heartwood with a paler sapwood, showing moderate natural luster and darkening slightly to a golden amber over time.

Hardness (Janka)

1350 lbf (Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable with high resistance to decay and moisture penetration due to closed cellular tyloses.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

$3.00 to $6.00 per board foot for standard lumber.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Recently harvested green wood log cross-section, approximately 15 to 20 years old based on ring count.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, and tight cooperage.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Accepts screws, nails, and glue well, though pre-boring is recommended; responds favorably to steam bending.

Finish Recommendations

Accepts stains, polyurethane, and oil finishes evenly with proper sanding preparation.

Notable Features

Contains abundant tyloses in the heartwood vessels making it naturally water-resistant, along with prominent ray fleck when quarter-sawn.

Learn more about White Oak in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified November 1, 2026