White Oak
Quercus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1350 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to tyloses in the pores.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent open texture, featuring a mix of quarter-sawn ray fleck and plain-sawn appearance.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a distinct grayish or yellowish hue, and lighter sapwood. Moderate luster, darkens slightly with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1350 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to tyloses in the pores.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and quarter-sawn characteristics.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years based on surface oxidation, texture, and milling marks, though it could be from reclaimed stock.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available, not listed on CITES, highly sustainable when harvested responsibly.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, cooperage (barrels), and exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can blunt cutting edges due to high silica/tannin content. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, polyurethane, varnishes, and oils very well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing over time.
Notable Features
Contains high levels of tannins which react with iron to cause black staining; possesses closed pores (tyloses) making it water-resistant.
