WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
White Oak
Quercus alba
Also known as: American White Oak, Stave Oak
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 1,360 lbf (6,050 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 755 kg/m³ (47 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.68
- Type
- Temperate hardwood
- Grain
- Straight with prominent rays
- Texture
- Medium to coarse
- Durability
- Very durable, resistant to decay; tyloses make it waterproof
- Region
- North America
- Sustainability
- Sustainable — Sustainable, abundant in eastern North American forests
Overview
White Oak is one of North America's most valuable hardwoods, prized for its water resistance and durability. The presence of tyloses in its cells makes it uniquely suitable for barrels and boatbuilding. Its beautiful ray figure and strength have made it essential for furniture and flooring for centuries.
The heartwood is light to medium brown with pale tan sapwood. It has a medium to coarse texture with straight grain and prominent ray figure. Dried weight averages 755 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 1,360 lbf. Tyloses in the vessels make the wood impermeable to liquids.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Moderate - hard wood
Gluing
Good with proper surface preparation
Finishing
Takes stain and finish well; can react with water-based finishes
Steam Bending
Good steam bending characteristics
Scent
Mild, characteristic oak scent; pleasant when worked
Assessment
Strengths
- Water resistant
- Durable
- Beautiful ray figure
- Excellent for barrels
Weaknesses
- Can react with iron
- Moderate blunting
- Slow growth limits supply
Common Uses
Wine barrels · Boatbuilding · Flooring · Furniture · Outdoor construction · Cabinetry