Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1,290 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable; poor natural resistance to decay and insect attack if exposed to high moisture without treatment.
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Grain Pattern
Coarse, open grain with prominent rays, linear pores, and classic cathedral patterns from flat-sawn cut boards.
Color & Appearance
Warm reddish-brown to golden amber heartwood with yellow undertones deepened by age and oil-based finish, sapwood tends to be light tan.
Hardness (Janka)
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable; poor natural resistance to decay and insect attack if exposed to high moisture without treatment.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.50 to $7.00 per board foot for select grade lumber; $3.50 to $6.00 per square foot for strip flooring.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Approximately 30 to 60 years old based on narrow strip dimensions, surface oxidation, slight floorboard gaps, and aged clear-coat finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available, sustainably managed in North American forests, FSC certified options plentiful.
Common Uses
Hardwood flooring, residential cabinetry, indoor furniture, millwork, interior doors, and decorative veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Works well with hand and power tools; cuts cleanly, holds screws and nails firmly, responds well to steam bending, though ring-porous grain can cause minor tearout if tools are dull.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains exceptionally well due to large open pores; finish with oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, or penetrating sealers.
Notable Features
Distinct ring-porous structure with open earlywood pores, prominent medullary rays, mild tannic scent when freshly cut, high tannin content.
