White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-contact applications unlike Red Oak.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The image shows a flat-sawn (plain-sawn) orientation displaying a classic prominent cathedral arch pattern in the center.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with an olive cast. Sapwood is light off-white to light brown. It tends to darken slightly over time towards a more golden-amber hue.
Hardness (Janka)
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores, making it suitable for water-contact applications unlike Red Oak.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (USD) depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern stock; approximately 1-5 years post-processing based on lack of significant oxidation, minimal surface wear, and fresh machine-planed finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. It has a moderately high shrinkage rate, but glues, stains, and finishes well. Pre-boring is recommended for nails and screws.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well including oils, polyurethane, and lacquer. Often stained to highlight the cathedral grain or fumed with ammonia to darken naturally.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can react with iron/steel fasteners to cause blue-black staining. Strong, heavy, and rot-resistant.
