White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight-grained with coarse texture. The sample shows a rift-sawn to quarter-sawn orientation exhibiting characteristic medullary rays (flecking) and deep, open pores.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood, often with a grayish or olive cast. Sapwood is light tan to near white. Surface shows significant oxidation (silver-gray patina in weathered areas) and darkening with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood pores which make it nearly water-tight.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
40-70 years based on the heavy oxidation, deep patina, and presence of old nail holes/fastener staining.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent results with machine and hand tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability is a factor. Responds well to steam bending. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause blue-black staining when in contact with iron/steel in wet conditions.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes enhance the figure. Polyurethane or lacquer provides excellent protection. If staining, a wood conditioner is recommended due to large pores.
Identification Confidence
High. The ring-porous structure, visible medullary rays, color, and tell-tale oxidation patterns are characteristic of the White Oak group.