White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain consisting of rift-sawn and quarter-sawn sections with prominent medullary rays and cathedral arches.
Color Description
Light to medium tan with a yellowish to olive cast. Sapwood is slightly lighter. This specific sample appears to have a white-washed or light gray reactive stain finish, which neutralizes the natural yellow-brown tones.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot and moisture due to the presence of tyloses in the pores.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $7.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern flooring (less than 10-15 years), likely engineered or luxury solid plank with a contemporary factory finish.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; widely available with FSC certification; not listed on CITES and categorized as Least Concern by IUCN.
Workability
Good results with hand and machine tools, though it has moderate shrinkage. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well but requires pre-drilling for screws.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic smell when cut. High tannin content can react with iron to cause dark staining. Pores are clogged with tyloses making it waterproof.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes to maintain the light color, or reactive stains to 'ceruse' the grain. Natural oils also work well but will darken the wood slightly.
Identification Confidence
High; the open pore structure, distinct ray flecks, and grain movement are characteristic of the Quercus genus, specifically White Oak due to the long ray lines and cool color tone.