White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1360 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks due to closed cellular structures.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the surface, along with some slight knot features.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish-tan or light straw-colored sapwood. Moderate natural luster that darkens slightly to a rich amber patina with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks due to closed cellular structures.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged (several decades old), indicated by the dried surface texture and developed oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable; not CITES listed and of least concern on the IUCN Red List. Readily available as FSC certified.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, exterior construction, tight cooperage (barrels), and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a moderate blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron to form dark stains.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts a wide variety of finishes including oils, varnishes, lacquers, and polyurethane. Water-based finishes may raise grain, so light sanding between coats is recommended.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the heartwood which plug the pores and make it water-resistant. High tannin content makes it reactive with steel.
