White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable (good resistance to rot and decay)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture, showing faint growth ring boundaries and some weathering marks.
Color & Appearance
Light brown to grayish-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood, exhibiting significant surface discoloration, staining, and dark weathering patches.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable (good resistance to rot and decay)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old, indicated by weathered surface patina and oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, and cooperage.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges; glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, polyurethane, and varnishes well; sealing the surface is recommended to prevent tannin bleed.
Notable Features
High tannin content which causes it to react with iron to form dark stains; closed cellular structure makes it resistant to moisture penetration.
