The Species:

Flooring Trade Name: White Oak

Botanical Name: Quercus, alba

Lumber Name: White Oak

Grows In: North America w/related species throughout Europe & Asia

Products / Oak, White

Description:

White Oak is the American classic, used widely in "Mission" style furniture where the distinctive rays found in the quarter sawn grain are sought.

Color Range & Color Change:

Color Range: White Oak has a medium high degree of color variability and ranges from light tan colors to medium tan colors with a grayish cast to medium brown colors. WFI offers highly selected straight grain offerings, which are color selected to yield a uniform medium tan color.

Color Change: White Oak undergoes a medium degree of color change, with a slight ambering over time.

Hardness:

White Oak is 108% as hard as red oak (1360 on the Janka scale vs.1260 for red oak).

Where to Use:

White Oak may be used both residentially and commercially. It is sought after for the "fleck" found in the quarter sawn selection, which yields a distinguished classic look to any formal setting.

Stability:

White Oak is average in stability, similar to red oak.

Allergic Reaction Potential:

White Oak is known to cause contact dermatitis so care should be taken when coming in contact with White Oak saw dust. Also, wood dust in general can be a hazard.

Known Finish Issues:

There are no finish incompatibilities known for White Oak. However, ALWAYS test the finish you propose to use FIRST on test pieces to insure compatibility.