White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Visible large rays and pores characteristic of flat-sawn oak surfaces.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with an olive cast. Sapwood is nearly white to light brown. Visible oxidation and graying on the lower portion due to environmental exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent decay resistance and rot resistance, though sapwood has low durability; often used in boatbuilding.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, barrels (cooperage), and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The board shows signs of being air-dried or stored for several years (5-10+) based on surface oxidation, graying at the bottom, and rough-cut saw marks.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Due to high tannin content, it can react with iron fasteners (causing blue/black staining) when wet.
Notable Features
Tyloses in the heartwood pores make the wood water-resistant. Distinguishable from Red Oak by its longer medullary rays and closed pores. Has a distinct, slightly acidic scent when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or oil-based finishes are recommended to enhance the grain and provide protection for its intended use.
Identification Confidence
High. The coarse grain, open pore structure visible in the rough-cut surface, and the typical light-brown-to-olive heartwood color are classic indicators of Quercus species, specifically White Oak group.