Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to moderately durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a coarse, open texture and noticeable prominent growth rings typical of plain-sawn and quarter-sawn lumber.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown, while the sapwood is a paler whitish to light brown color with moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to moderately durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and region
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern to moderately recent, manufactured or milled within the last 5 to 15 years based on the clean surface condition and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN, widely available through sustainable forestry initiatives.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, millwork, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the open pores benefit from grain filler, and it responds well to gluing, screwing, and nailing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, polyurethane, lacquer, and oil finishes exceptionally well, though grain filling may be desired for a perfectly smooth, glass-like finish.
Notable Features
Open cellular structure with large visible pores (vessels) running through the grain, allowing air to pass completely through the end grain in some cuts.
