White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a medium to large texture. The sample shows a rough-sawn surface with prominent rift/quarter-sawn ray fleck potential hidden beneath the oxidation.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is light cream. This specific sample shows significant surface greying and darkening due to oxidation and exposure to light/moisture.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay. Common for outdoor use and boat building due to tyloses in heartwood pores.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
6.00 to 10.00 USD per board foot for rough-cut lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
Vintage/Reclaimed (20-50 years). The deep oxidation, grey patina, and rough-cut saw marks suggest the lumber has been stored or weathered for decades.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified.
Workability
Relatively easy to work with machine and hand tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability is a factor. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) when wet.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. High tannin content makes it susceptible to iron staining. It is one of the few woods that is virtually waterproof due to clogged pores.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or polyurethane. If the grey patina is desired, a clear matte topcoat; if fresh wood is revealed by planing, standard stains and oils work exceptionally well.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The visible pore structure, ring-porous appearance, and silver-grey oxidation pattern are classic indicators of Quercus species, specifically White Oak.