Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strong, coarse grain with a prominent cathedral pattern visible in the flat-sawn orientation; open-pored texture with straight to slightly irregular lines.
Color Description
Light to medium brown with a distinct reddish cast; sapwood is white to light brown. The wood tends to darken slightly and become more amber/golden over time with exposure to UV and oxygen.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable to non-durable; poor resistance to decay and prone to insect attack if used in outdoor or high-moisture environments.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, paneling, and veneer.
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 region.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the ambering of the finish and the style of the paneling, the sample likely dates from the late 20th century (approximately 20–40 years old).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered highly sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Large pores can cause some splintering if tools are dull, and it has a high shrinkage rate.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when freshly cut; contains high tannin content which can react with iron to cause black staining; very porous end-grain.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes extremely well; often requires a grain filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired. Polyurethane or lacquer are standard for durability.
Identification Confidence
High; the prominent cathedral grain, reddish hue, and large open pores are classic diagnostic features of flat-sawn Northern Red Oak.