Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Prominent cathedral grain on flat-sawn surfaces with coarse texture. Large open pores and visible medullary rays are present, though rays are shorter than those found in White Oak. Includes rustic features like knots and slight grain swirling.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with a reddish cast. Sapwood is white to light brown and not always sharply demarcated. The sample shows a medium-amber stain which accentuates the grain. It tends to darken slightly toward straw/amber over time.
Hardness Rating
1290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable to non-durable regarding decay resistance. Low resistance to rot and insects; heartwood can be susceptible to moisture damage if not properly sealed.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, and veneer. Often used in kitchen and bathroom vanities as seen in the image.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $4.50 to $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be 20 to 40 years old based on the cabinet construction style, the yellowing/ambering of the polyurethane finish, and typical wear on the stile edges.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. Commonly available as FSC certified.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It has a high shrinkage rate resulting in moderate dimensional stability. It reacts well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Distinctive acrid scent when being worked. High tannin content can cause blue-black staining if in contact with iron and moisture. Large, open pores require grain filler if a glass-smooth finish is desired.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for bathroom environments to protect against moisture. Stains apply very easily because of the open-pore structure.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of large open pores, reddish-brown hue under the stain, short medullary rays, and 'flat-sawn' cathedral patterns is diagnostic of Red Oak in a domestic cabinetry context.