Most likely red oak; alternatives include southern red oak or another open-grained oak. — Quercus rubra (probable)

Most likely red oak; alternatives include southern red oak or another open-grained oak.

Quercus rubra (probable) · Hardwood (deciduous); likely domestic North American.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (deciduous); likely domestic North American.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States and Canada.
Hardness
Janka approximately 1,290 lbf — Hard.
Durability
Slightly durable outdoors; moderate resistance to wear but relatively poor heartwood resistance to rot and insects when exposed.

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Grain Pattern

Generally straight, coarse, and open-grained, with prominent earlywood pores and subtle cathedral-like variation; appears flat-sawn and rough-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Pinkish tan to salmon-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood, moderate luster, and little visible figure. It typically darkens slightly to warmer brown with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka approximately 1,290 lbf — Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable outdoors; moderate resistance to wear but relatively poor heartwood resistance to rot and insects when exposed.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $4–$9 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried red oak; figured or exceptionally clear stock may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate from this image; the rough surface shows handling or machining wear but no reliable age indicators.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, trim, millwork, veneer, stair parts, and general interior construction.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States and Canada.

Workability

Machines and sands reasonably well, though coarse pores can cause tear-out and require filling for a smooth finish. Glues, screws, and nails well with normal predrilling.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively and use pore filler for a glass-smooth surface; oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane are suitable. A conditioner or washcoat can reduce uneven staining.

Notable Features

Distinctive open pores and warm salmon coloration; red oak is comparatively coarse-textured and commonly shows strong growth-ring contrast.

Learn more about Most likely red oak; alternatives include southern red oak or another open-grained oak. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 13, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Red Oak; Alternatives Include Southern Red Oak Or Another Open-grained Oak. in the encyclopedia

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