Likely white oak; red oak is a plausible alternative. — Quercus alba (tentative); alternatively Quercus rubra.

Likely white oak; red oak is a plausible alternative.

Quercus alba (tentative); alternatively Quercus rubra. · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
White oak is native to eastern and central North America; red oak grows broadly across eastern North America.
Hardness
1,360 lbf for white oak — Hard; red oak is about 1,290 lbf, also Hard.
Durability
White oak is Durable, with good decay resistance; red oak is less decay-resistant. Species cannot be confirmed visually here.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Appears straight-grained and relatively uniform on the broad face; the end grain is not clear enough to assess pores or ray fleck, and the sawn orientation is uncertain.

Color & Appearance

Light tan to pale brown, with little visible heartwood–sapwood contrast in this image. Color and luster may deepen slightly with age and finish.

Hardness (Janka)

1,360 lbf for white oak — Hard; red oak is about 1,290 lbf, also Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

White oak is Durable, with good decay resistance; red oak is less decay-resistant. Species cannot be confirmed visually here.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$5–12 per board foot for common kiln-dried stock; grade, dimensions, and local market substantially affect price.

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

Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminable from the image; the clean, uniform surface shows no reliable aging or wear indicators.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, millwork, barrels, and boat components.

Geographic Origin

White oak is native to eastern and central North America; red oak grows broadly across eastern North America.

Workability

Generally machines and finishes well, though oak can splinter or tear out; predrilling helps with fasteners. White oak’s open pores may need filling for a glass-smooth finish.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; pore filling is optional for a smoother appearance.

Notable Features

Oak commonly has prominent open pores and ray fleck when quarter-sawn, but these features are not clearly visible in this sample.

Learn more about Likely white oak; red oak is a plausible alternative. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 23, 2026