Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; non-resistant to heartwood decay when exposed to moisture and vulnerable to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced coarse texture and open pores, primarily flat-sawn displaying typical cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with paler sapwood. Medium luster with no significant chatoyance; darkens slightly to a warmer amber tone over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; non-resistant to heartwood decay when exposed to moisture and vulnerable to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent, likely processed within the last few years based on the clean surface condition and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists of threatened species; highly sustainable and abundantly available with good FSC availability.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Favorable workability; machines well, glues, and takes screws/nails easily, though open pores require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, lacquers, and polyurethane exceptionally well; grain filler is recommended if a completely smooth, glass-like finish is desired.
Notable Features
Open and porous grain structure with distinct growth rings, highly absorbent, contains moderate amounts of tannins.
