Red Oak (alternative: White Oak)
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,290 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable regarding decay and rot resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with coarse texture, ring-porous, showing prominent ray fleck and large pore lines characteristic of flat-sawn or rift-sawn oak lumber.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with pinkish tones. Sapwood is white to light brown. Highly porous face grain with coarse, visible dark vessel lines.
Hardness (Janka)
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable regarding decay and rot resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently sawn rough-cut lumber (fresh timber cut, likely under 1-2 years old).
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Least Concern, widely available, sustainably harvested in North America, non-CITES listed.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, millwork, panelling, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high density can dull cutters. Good steam-bending capabilities; accepts glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains very well due to open pores. Paste wood filler recommended if a smooth finish is desired. Sealers, varnish, polyurethane, or oil-based finishes work excellently.
Notable Features
High tannin content which can react with iron/steel fasteners to cause dark staining; strong noticeable oak scent when freshly cut or worked; large open pores.
