Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral patterns with coarse texture; straight grain with visible open pores and medium to large ray flecks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown with a reddish cast; sapwood is light brown to white. Color deepens and ambers with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable to non-durable; poor decay resistance and susceptible to insect attack if left untreated. Best for indoor use.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, furniture, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot (select grade).
Wood Age Estimate
The wear on the finish and the oxidation of the pores suggest these floorboards are 20 to 40 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainably managed through FSC certifications.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands well, though large pores require filling for a smooth finish. High tannin content can react with iron-based fasteners.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'vinegar' scent when freshly cut. Highly porous (open-grained), allowing it to take stains very evenly. Contains high levels of tannins.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane is the standard for flooring; oil-based finishes enhance the reddish tones, while water-based finishes keep it lighter. Grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the prominent cathedral grain, coarse texture, and reddish-brown hue are hallmark characteristics of flat-sawn Red Oak flooring.