Red Oak (likely Northern Red Oak)
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately durable; rated as non-durable to perishable regarding decay resistance, and vulnerable to insect attack if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn face, showing characteristic coarse, open pores.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown, while the sapwood is a lighter, pale yellowish-white. The wood has moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a warmer amber tone over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; rated as non-durable to perishable regarding decay resistance, and vulnerable to insect attack if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.50 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or kiln-dried lumber (new stock, less than 1 year old), showing no significant patina or weathering.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainably managed in North American forests.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, architectural millwork, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, glues, and finishes well, though the open pores require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish. Prone to splitting when nailed near edges.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, lacquers, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Grain filler is recommended prior to topcoating if a smooth, pore-free finish is desired.
Notable Features
High porosity (open grain), distinct growth rings, and moderate tannin content. Red oak is distinguishable from white oak by its open pores containing no tyloses and a generally pinkish-red hue.
