White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure (tyloses), making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent coarse texture, featuring distinct growth rings and typical cathedral or flat-sawn patterns on the face grain.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a grayish cast; pale yellowish-white sapwood. Luster is medium. Darkens slightly to a rich amber-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to decay and rot due to closed cellular structure (tyloses), making it suitable for outdoor and marine applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and kiln-dried status
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut to recently felled log (less than 1 year old), based on the intact moist bark and lack of significant oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and of least concern according to the IUCN Red List. Widely available from well-managed forests, often FSC certified.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), exterior construction, and timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has moderate to high blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but reacts with iron fasteners to cause black discoloration.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well. Polyurethane or hardening oils enhance the natural grain nicely.
Notable Features
Contains tyloses in the pores which make the wood water-resistant. High tannin content can react with iron to form stains.
