Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral grain with large, open pores and prominent growth rings. Coarse and uneven texture common to ring-porous hardwoods.
Color Description
Medium to dark brown heartwood with a reddish cast, darkened significantly by a stain or aged finish. Sapwood is typically light to medium brown. Low luster due to the current surface condition.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; poor resistance to decay and insects compared to White Oak due to open pores (lack of tyloses).
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot for select grade dimensional lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
20 to 50 years based on the yellowing of the clear coat and the buildup of dust/grime within the deep pores.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Works well with machine and hand tools; can be prone to splintering. Great for staining because of its open pores, but requires grain filler if a glass-smooth finish is desired.
Notable Features
Tells apart from White Oak by its open-pored end grain and lack of tyloses. Has a distinct, slightly acidic scent when being cut.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability. Open-grain hardwoods often benefit from a paste grain filler if a high-gloss, smooth surface is required.
Identification Confidence
High; the prominent cathedral grain and visible open vessel elements (pores) filled with dark stain are classic markers of Red Oak.