Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when in direct contact with soil due to its porous end grain.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture and prominent open pores; flat-sawn face showing cathedral grain patterns.
Color & Appearance
Pinkish to reddish-brown heartwood with lighter, pale brown sapwood. Low to moderate natural luster, darkening slightly to a deeper amber hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when in direct contact with soil due to its porous end grain.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a recently milled rough-sawn board, likely less to a few years old based on fresh surface texture and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN. Readily available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, millwork, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes, saws, and glues well, though it can split easily with nails or screws if not pre-drilled. Open pores require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, lacquers, and oil finishes exceptionally well. Use a paste wood filler prior to topcoating if a completely smooth, pore-free surface is desired.
Notable Features
Highly porous open grain structure which allows liquids to pass completely through the board; contains moderate levels of tannins.
