Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when in contact with the ground, though heartwood offers moderate rot resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a coarse, open texture and prominent ring-porous structure visible on the end grain and face.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with a lighter sapwood. Has a natural matte luster and deepens to a richer amber/brown tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when in contact with the ground, though heartwood offers moderate rot resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated to be freshly dried within the past 1 to 3 years based on surface condition and lack of heavy oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN. Readily available as sustainably managed domestic hardwood.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, architectural millwork, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and shapes well, though open pores require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish. Can split when nailed near edges, so pre-drilling is recommended.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, varnishes, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Grain filler is recommended if a completely smooth, pore-free surface is desired.
Notable Features
Open, porous end-grain structure with large visible pores that readily absorb liquids. High tannin content, which can react with iron to cause dark staining.
