White Oak

White oak varies in color from light tan to pale yellow-brown with a pinkish tinge. It is similar to European oak. Straight grained with characteristic silver grain in quarter sawn wood. Medium to coarse texture. White Oak is somewhat more figured than Red Oak due to longer rays. Also known as Appalachian Oak, Arizona Oak, Stave Oak, Cucharillo or Encino. Medium bending and crushing strength. Low stiffness makes it an excellent steam bending wood. Pre-boring is advised, but takes nails and screws well. Gluing properties vary. Stains well and polishes to a good finish. Heartwood is durable and very resistant to preservative treatment. Sapwood is moderately resistant. White oak dries slowly with tendency for checking, splitting and honeycombing. White oak requires careful air or kiln drying. Medium movement. White oak is suitable for furniture, cabinetmaking, joinery, heavy construction, parquet and strip flooring, ladder rungs, plywood, veneers, paneling, railroad ties, shakes, shingles. Grain may need to be filled to achieve smooth finish.