White Oak
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain. This sample exhibits a slightly wavy or interlocking texture in some areas with prominent medullary rays and a coarse, uneven texture typical of flat-sawn oak.
Color Description
Light to medium tan or light brown heartwood with a grayish tint. Sapwood is light cream to almost white. Oak typically darkens to a more amber/golden hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High resistance to decay and rot due to the presence of tyloses in the pores which make the wood nearly liquid-impermeable.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, boat building, barrels (cooperage), trim, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate from image; the lack of deep patina suggest the sample is relatively modern or has been recently surfaced.
Sustainability Status
Abundantly available; not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; FSC certification widely available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machine and hand tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. It reacts with iron (rust) and can turn blue/black if wet oak touches iron.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'oaky' scent when being worked. High tannin content. Contains tyloses, making it waterproof and suitable for wine and whiskey barrels.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Polyurethane or lacquer are common; oils like tung or linseed highlight the grain effectively. Use a grain filler if a perfectly smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the open-pored structure, color range, and visible ray flecks are consistent with North American White Oak.