Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse, uneven texture with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern and straight to slightly irregular longitudinal grain. Pores are large and open.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with a reddish cast. Sapwood is white to light brown. In this sample, an amber or honey-toned stain and topcoat have likely been applied, which will darken further to a deeper amber with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable to non-durable; poor resistance to rot and fungal decay compared to White Oak. Susceptible to insect attack if not treated.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, furniture, veneer, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood is likely 20-40 years old, evidenced by the characteristic yellowing/ambering of the vintage film finish and the slight surface micro-scratches typical of mid-to-late 20th-century cabinetry or paneling.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably harvested in North America. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It has high shrinkage and can be prone to split when nailing near ends, but it glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinguished by large, open pores that can be seen without magnification. It has a characteristic 'vinegar' or acidic scent when freshly cut. High tannin content can cause blue-black staining if in contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a grain filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired due to large pores. Accepts stains very evenly. Polyurethane or lacquer are standard for durability on this species.
Identification Confidence
High. The extremely prominent open-pore structure (ring-porous density) combined with the classic 'cathedral' flat-sawn grain and reddish-brown undertones is diagnostic of the Quercus genus, specifically the Red Oak group.