Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent cathedral pattern on flat-sawn surfaces and open, coarse texture featuring large pores
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown, often with a pinkish hue; sapwood is a lighter white to pale brown
Hardness (Janka)
1,220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber grades
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recent (within the last 1 to 5 years), based on the raw, unfinished appearance and lack of significant patina or oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN; widely abundant and sustainably harvested
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, flooring, interior trim, and general millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though open pores require grain filler for a smooth finish
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane very well; grain filler can be used prior to finishing if a perfectly smooth surface is desired
Notable Features
Open and porous grain structure with large, visible pores; high porosity means it is not water-tight and allows air to pass through end grain easily
