White oak trees are known for strength and durability, making them a preferred selection for structural projects.[5] Oak wood has high moisture content and low density, which results in relatively high volumetric shrinkage (16%).[3]
White oak wood must be dried carefully and slowly to avoid damage, discoloration, or degradation.[3] In humid conditions or regions, it can be difficult to achieve a pristine product, so a kiln is essential. White oak lumber is typically kiln dried from green to 6% moisture in 4-6 weeks, depending on the thickness. [5]
White oak lumber can be cut in one of three ways: flat sawn, quarter sawn, or rift sawn.
When the log is cut at the sawmill, each type of cut is dependent on the orientation of the log. For woodworkers, it is also suitable for tight cooperage.
Flatsawn is the most common cut of lumber available and the least expensive to be manufactured from log to lumber. The wood has a cathedral pattern on the face of the board where the annular rings are 30 degrees or less.[6]
Quartersawn is more expensive than flat sawn but has a distinct, straight grain pattern that is defined by the angle of the wood being sawn. The log is cut into four quarters, and the annular growth rings intersect on the face of the board at a 60 to 90 degree angle, hence the name.[6]
Riftsawn is the most expensive and least common because it produces the most waste. Rift sawn lumber has a unique linear pattern because it is milled perpendicular to the optimal 45 degree angle annual growth rings.[6]