Red Oak — Quercus rubra

Red Oak

Quercus rubra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America
Hardness
1220 lbf, Hard
Durability
Moderately durable, with good resistance to wear but vulnerable to decay and insect attack.

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Grain Pattern

Straight, open grain with prominent growth rings displaying a distinct cathedral pattern on flat-sawn surfaces.

Color & Appearance

Light to medium brown heartwood with a reddish tint and pale yellow-brown sapwood, deepening slightly with age.

Hardness (Janka)

1220 lbf, Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable, with good resistance to wear but vulnerable to decay and insect attack.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber.

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

Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 40 to 70 years old, based on surface wear patterns and ambered finish patina.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, and architectural woodwork.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Good workability; planes, glues, and finishes well, though open pores require grain filling for a smooth finish.

Finish Recommendations

Polyurethane, lacquer, or varnish applied over a grain filler to achieve a smooth, protected surface.

Notable Features

Coarse texture with large, open pores visible across the surface and high natural tannin content.

Learn more about Red Oak in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 23, 2026