White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows prominent large, open pores and medullary rays typical of a flat-sawn or slightly rift-sawn orientation.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with an olive cast. Sapwood is light off-white to light brown. This sample shows significant grayish oxidation/weathering and tannin staining with some warm golden undertones.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay due to tyloses in the pores which make the wood nearly liquid-impermeable.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
The graying patina and surface oxidation suggest this is an older piece of lumber or reclaimed material, likely 20-50 years old depending on storage conditions.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has a moderate dulling effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can react with iron-based fasteners to create dark blue/black stains.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when cut. Contains high tannin content. Notable for tyloses in heartwood pores which provide superior water resistance compared to Red Oak.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or polyurethane to highlight the grain. If using water-based finishes, a sealer is recommended to prevent tannin pull.
Identification Confidence
High; identification is based on the characteristic pore structure, color with olive undertones, and the presence of long medullary rays visible in the grain.