Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately durable (decay resistance is moderate, vulnerable to insect attack if untreated)
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Prominent open-grained texture with long, straight lines and characteristic ring-porous cathedral grain patterns visible on the table surface.
Color & Appearance
Dark brown stained finish applied over a reddish-brown undertone typical of red oak heartwood. Moderate natural luster, showing some wear and scuff marks revealing lighter wood beneath.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable (decay resistance is moderate, vulnerable to insect attack if untreated)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot (standard commercial grade lumber)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 15 years old based on modern furniture construction style, wear patterns, and surface finish degradation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (widely abundant, not CITES listed, readily available with FSC certification options)
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, and millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Good workability; glues, stains, and finishes well, but prone to splitting when nailed and has abrasive silica content that can dull cutting tools.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or conversion varnish over stain; grain filler may be needed if a completely smooth, glass-like finish is desired.
Notable Features
Large, open pores characteristic of ring-porous hardwoods; highly porous end grain requiring pore filler for a perfectly smooth finish.
