White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse, straight grain with prominent cathedral figure in the center due to being plain-sawn. Features distinct medullary rays and large, open pores. Contains a small tight knot near the top left side.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with an olive cast; sapwood is much lighter cream-to-white. Does not have the reddish tones associated with Red Oak. Tends to darken and become more golden-yellow with exposure to UV and age.
Hardness Rating
1360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the heartwood which plug the vessels, making it liquid-tight. Good resistance to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boat building, cooperage (wine and whiskey barrels), interior trim, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $9.00 USD per board foot depending on region and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely kiln-dried and recently surfaced. No significant patina or oxidation indicates it is likely under 2-5 years old since processing.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and not CITES listed. FSC certification is common. Overall very sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machine and hand tools. High shrinkage rate makes dimensional stability a concern if not dried properly. Reacts with iron (turning blue/black) if wet. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. High tannin content makes it ideal for fuming with ammonia. Ring-porous structure with tyloses allows for use in liquid containers. Heavy and strong.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or penetrating oils like Danish oil or tung oil. Does not require a grain filler unless a glass-smooth surface is desired. Takes stains and dyes well.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinct cathedral grain pattern, presence of medullary rays, and the specific light/olive-brown color are characteristic of Quercus alba.