Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,290 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Slightly durable to non-durable. Poor resistance to decay and insects compared to White Oak; lacks the closed tyloses structure.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Strongly porous with a coarse, open grain. Shows distinctive cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces and prominent rays. Grain is generally straight but can be irregular.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with a reddish or pinkish cast. White to light brown sapwood isn't always sharply demarcated. Tends to amber over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable to non-durable. Poor resistance to decay and insects compared to White Oak; lacks the closed tyloses structure.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot (standard select grade).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-40 years old based on the thickness of the finish layers, the ambering of the topcoat, and significant surface wear/scratches consistent with late 20th-century residential flooring.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified sources are common.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, veneer, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Workability
Excellent results with both hand and machine tools. Has moderately high shrinkage values. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though the open pores may require filling for a smooth surface.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane is standard for flooring. Responds well to oil-based stains which highlight the large pores. Water-based finishes can be used to prevent the 'yellowing' or ambering effect.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'vinegary' scent when being worked; high tannin content can cause dark stains if in contact with iron and moisture; highly porous end grain.
