Medium (High confidence as Quercus genus based on deep oak-type furrowed bark, coarse texture, radial medullary rays visible in end grain splits; exact species within white/red oak group is difficult from bark/split cordwood alone) confidence

White Oak (or Red Oak species family)

Quercus spp. (likely Quercus alba or Quercus rubra) · Hardwood

Type: Hardwood
Origin: Eastern and Central North America
Hardness: 1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability: Durable (heartwood has high natural decay and rot resistance, though sapwood and bark are susceptible to weather degradation)

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Grain Pattern

Straight to slightly coarse grain with wide earlywood pores visible on rough split face; prominent radial rays characteristic of oak species visible in cross-sections

Color & Appearance

Exposed aged surface is weathered silver-gray with darker oxidation; interior heartwood transitions from light brown to reddish-tan under deep checking

Hardness (Janka)

1,360 lbf (Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable (heartwood has high natural decay and rot resistance, though sapwood and bark are susceptible to weather degradation)

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value: $3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (milled lumber); sold as cordwood/firewood at $250 - $400 per cord
Wood Age Estimate: Tree age unknown; split firewood log has been seasoned outdoors for approximately 1 to 3 years based on surface checking, grey weathering patina, and lichen growth
Sustainability Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List); widely available, sustainably harvested, non-CITES listed

Common Uses

Firewood, rustic structural timbers, fence posts, outdoor furniture, cabinetry, flooring

Geographic Origin

Eastern and Central North America

Workability

Fair to good workability; dense wood can dull cutting tools quickly; machine splits well along grain lines, glues well, holds fasteners strongly

Finish Recommendations

If transformed into lumber: penetrating oils (tung or linseed), polyurethane, or exterior spar varnish; requires stabilization if working with bark-on or weathered split logs

Notable Features

Heavy, dense, distinct oak tannin odor when wet/cut, rough deeply furrowed bark with prominent grey and orange lichen colonies on exterior

Learn more about White Oak (or Red Oak species family) in the Wood Encyclopedia

Identified July 25, 2026