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 moderate resistance to rot and poor resistance to insect attack in exterior settings.

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Grain Pattern

Straight grain with prominent cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces and open, porous texture.

Color & Appearance

Pinkish to reddish-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood, exhibiting a medium natural luster and darkening slightly to a deeper amber hue with age.

Hardness (Janka)

1220 lbf (Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable, with moderate resistance to rot and poor resistance to insect attack in exterior settings.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

3 to 6 dollars per board foot

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 20 to 40 years old based on modern turned furniture construction and recent sanding marks.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, and millwork.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Good overall workability, cuts and planes easily, though coarse pores require grain filler for a smooth finish.

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains, polyurethane, and oil finishes exceptionally well, though paste wood filler is recommended before clear coating to achieve a glass-smooth surface.

Notable Features

Distinctive large open pores and prominent rays visible on quartered surfaces, providing strong structural rigidity and a classic traditional appearance.

Learn more about Red Oak in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified November 5, 2026