Most likely red oak; alternatives include black oak or another North American oak. — Quercus rubra (likely)

Most likely red oak; alternatives include black oak or another North American oak.

Quercus rubra (likely) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States.
Hardness
Janka about 1,290 lbf — Hard.
Durability
Slightly durable; heartwood has limited rot and insect resistance, while sapwood is vulnerable outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, open-grained flat-sawn stock with cathedral-like arches and visible ray fleck; live edge retains bark and sapwood.

Color & Appearance

Salmon to pinkish-tan heartwood with paler sapwood, moderate luster, and some darker streaking near the bark. It generally darkens slightly to warm brown with age.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka about 1,290 lbf — Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable; heartwood has limited rot and insect resistance, while sapwood is vulnerable outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried live-edge red oak; figured or exceptionally wide stock may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The tree’s age cannot be determined from the photograph; the board appears freshly sawn or only lightly weathered, not antique.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, paneling, millwork, veneer, and interior joinery.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States.

Workability

Machines and sands well, though open pores and occasional grain reversal can cause tearout. It holds fasteners and glues reliably; end-grain sealing is recommended.

Finish Recommendations

Fill or leave the pores open, then use oil, hardwax oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane. Seal both faces and ends to reduce uneven moisture movement.

Notable Features

Prominent earlywood pores, visible rays, strong cathedral figure, and a rough natural live edge; the board appears wide and slab-sawn.

Learn more about Most likely red oak; alternatives include black oak or another North American oak. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 7, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Red Oak; Alternatives Include Black Oak Or Another North American Oak. in the encyclopedia

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