Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strong, open-pored grain with prominent cathedral figure. Coarse texture with straight grain lines visible in the stiles and rails.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with a reddish cast. The sample shows a warm honey-colored amber stain. Highly susceptible to darkening or ambering of the finish over time.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable; poor decay resistance and prone to insect attack if left unfinished in outdoor environments.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $4.00 - $6.00 per board foot for select grade lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
30 to 50 years based on the style of the milled profile, visible wear in the crevices, and the ambering of the topcoat finish.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally very sustainable and widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It has a high shrinkage rate, so dimensional stability can be an issue. Large open pores can result in tearout if tools are dull.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'vinegar' scent when being worked. Large, open pores that can be filled to create a smooth surface or left open for texture. High tannin content.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains very well. Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for durability. Pores may need a grain filler if a high-gloss, glass-like finish is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The large, ring-porous grain structure and 'cathedral' peaking combined with the reddish-brown undertones are classic markers of flat-sawn Red Oak common in mid-to-late 20th-century furniture.