The Key Differences Between American White Oak and European Oak | Timbersource

Oak is a luxury timber with a beautiful grain. It is a popular choice when it comes to wood and is on the higher end of the spectrum in regard to price so, it is very important when choosing the right type of oak for your project. American White Oak or European Oak – which one should you choose?

American White Oak (Quercus Alba) is a hardwood found in Eastern North America and ranges from pale yellow-brown to pale reddish-brown in colour and can often produce a pinkish tint. European Oak (Quercus Robur) is a hardwood native to most of Europe, it is yellow-brown to gold-brown in colour with a beautiful grain.

How are they similar?

  • Both timbers have high strength properties
  • Both timbers are durable however, European Oak is more durable than American White which is moderately durable
  • Both timbers are medium in bending and crushing strength
  • Both timbers can be used for joinery interior, furniture, flooring and kitchens
  • Both timbers can be glued, stained, polished and takes nails and screws well

How are they different?

  • European Oak is more versatile and has many more uses than American White such as: joinery exterior, heavy structural use, cladding, sleepers, decking, construction and much more
  • American White Oak is denser than European
  • European Oak finishes well whereas American White can be more difficult to machine
  • American White Oak can show differences between light and dark shades whereas European has an even colour tone
  • European Oak is slightly darker in colour
  • European Oak has a distinctive, wavy grain pattern whereas American White is straight-grained

So, there you have it! The key similarities and differences between American and European Oak timber. They are both beautiful species and are very popular, get in touch if you require further advice and we would be more than happy to help.

Click here for our contact page, alternatively click here to visit our website.