White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The image shows a flat-sawn or rift-sawn appearance with characteristic large, open pores and visible medullary rays typical of the Quercus genus.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast. Sapwood is light beige to nearly white. Heartwood tends to darken slightly with age to a more golden brown, though this sample appears relatively fresh/unstained.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent decay resistance; it is used frequently in boat building and outdoor applications due to its closed tyloses which make it water-resistant.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, barrel making (cooperage), boat building, interior trim, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent (5-10 years post-harvest or newer). The lack of deep amber oxidation or heavy patina suggests a modern industrial milling and finish.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. It has a moderately high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. It reacts with iron (turning blue/black) when wet due to high tannin content.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. Contains tyloses, which plug the vessels in the heartwood, making it liquid-tight and distinguishing it from Red Oak.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are recommended to highlight the grain. Caution should be taken with water-based finishes to avoid tannin pull.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible large pores, distinct color tone, and the 'fleck' of the rays are classic hallmarks of White Oak, distinguishing it from the more porous/reddish Red Oak.