Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; non-durable to perishable regarding heartwood decay resistance, and susceptible to insect attack if untreated.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a prominent coarse and open texture, displaying distinct growth rings and cathedral patterning on flat-sawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a pinkish to reddish brown, while the sapwood is a paler whitish to light brown. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a richer amber tone with age and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; non-durable to perishable regarding heartwood decay resistance, and susceptible to insect attack if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively modern, approximately 1 to 5 years old based on clean manufacturing and minimal patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable; not listed on CITES appendices and generally evaluated as least concern by the IUCN, with widespread FSC-certified availability.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, architectural millwork, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though its open pores may require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish. Nails, screws, and glues well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, polyurethane, and lacquers exceptionally well. Use of a grain filler is recommended prior to topcoating if a completely smooth, pore-free surface is desired.
Notable Features
Characterized by large, open pores in the growth rings, high porosity, distinct ray fleck when quarter-sawn, and a moderate weight and density.
