Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Course, porous, and mostly straight grain with prominent cathedral figure patterns visible in the flat-sawn planks. Exhibits large, open pores typical of the ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with a reddish cast or pinkish undertone. Sapwood is white to light brown and is not always sharply demarcated from heartwood. Tends to darken slightly to a more amber tone over time.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable to non-durable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if used in exterior conditions.
Common Uses
Flooring (as seen in image), cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, paneling, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot for select grade lumber; flooring typically sold by square foot.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern installation, likely 5-20 years old based on the uniform milling, lack of deep oxidized patina, and current polyurethane finish condition.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered highly sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Has moderately high shrinkage values so dimensional stability can be an issue. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a mirror-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive, slightly acidic scent when being worked. High tannin content can react with iron-based fasteners to create blue/black stains. Large, open pores make it excellent for staining techniques.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based or oil-based polyurethane (standard for flooring). Responds exceptionally well to wiping stains which highlight the grain architecture.
Identification Confidence
High; the open-grain structure, classic cathedral arches, and characteristic pinkish hue are definitive markers for flat-sawn Red Oak flooring.