Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, open grain with a coarse texture. End grain shows large, open pores in a ring-porous arrangement typical of the red oak group.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with a reddish cast. Sapwood is typically white to light brown. The wood tends to darken slightly with age, becoming more golden or amber over time.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable; poor resistance to decay and insects. It has high permeability, making it susceptible to moisture rot if not sealed.
Common Uses
Stair railings (handrails), flooring, cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $6.00 per board foot for select grade
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be modern kiln-dried stock, likely less than 10-20 years old, based on the lack of deep oxidation and the clean profile cut.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and frequently FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machines; however, the high tannin content can cause blue staining if in contact with iron and water. Pre-boring is recommended for nails and screws to prevent splitting.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'vinegary' scent when being worked; highly porous structure allows it to be used for smoke-flavoring foods, but makes it unsuitable for water-tight containers (unlike White Oak).
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains very well due to open pores; polyurethane or lacquer are excellent for protecting the surface. An oil-based finish will highlight the grain best.
Identification Confidence
High; the end grain shows diagnostic large, open earlywood pores characteristic of the Quercus genus, and the reddish tint combined with the common handrail profile strongly indicates Red Oak.