Most likely Red Oak; possible White Oak or reclaimed oak flooring — Quercus rubra

Most likely Red Oak; possible White Oak or reclaimed oak flooring

Quercus rubra · Hardwood; likely reclaimed flooring

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; likely reclaimed flooring
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States.
Hardness
1,290 lbf Janka — Hard
Durability
Slightly Durable; heartwood has moderate decay resistance, while sapwood is vulnerable to insects and moisture-related deterioration.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, coarse, open-pored grain with prominent flat-sawn cathedral patterns; dark streaking appears to be wear, staining, or oxidation rather than natural figure.

Color & Appearance

Pinkish tan to medium reddish-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood, substantial variation, and a moderate open-grain luster. Darkens and becomes browner with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1,290 lbf Janka — Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; heartwood has moderate decay resistance, while sapwood is vulnerable to insects and moisture-related deterioration.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $4–$9 per board foot for sound new Red Oak; reclaimed flooring commonly varies from $3–$10 per square foot depending on grade and provenance.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be an older, heavily worn or refinished floor surface; visible patina suggests decades of use, but the wood’s actual age cannot be determined visually.

Common Uses

Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, millwork, veneer, paneling, and general construction.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States.

Workability

Machines and sands well but is coarse-grained; planing may cause tearout, and its open pores require filling for a glass-smooth finish. Glues, nails, and screws reliably with proper pilot holes.

Finish Recommendations

Clean and sand cautiously, then use grain filler if desired; oil, stain, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane are suitable. Test stain because oak can color unevenly.

Notable Features

Distinctive open pores and strong cathedral grain are consistent with oak; dark embedded marks likely reflect age, dirt, finish wear, or prior repairs.

Learn more about Most likely Red Oak; possible White Oak or reclaimed oak flooring in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 1, 2026