White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain showing a medium-to-coarse texture. Evidence of a flat-sawn or rift-sawn pattern with visible pores and slight waviness in sections.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden hue over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to the presence of tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-resistant applications.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing (last 5-10 years) based on the precision of the board gaps and relatively uniform light oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable and FSC certified from domestic sources.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it has a high shrinkage rate.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when worked. High tannin content can react with iron/steel fasteners to cause blue-black staining. Famous for its liquid-tight grain structure.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are standard for flooring. Responds exceptionally well to fuming with ammonia to darken the wood naturally.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the grain structure, pore distribution, and pale olive-brown color are characteristic of Quercus alba, though Ash or Chestnut can occasionally share similar face-grain traits.