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. Moisture can cause significant staining and rot in exterior applications.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse, and open-grained with a porous structure. Large, prominent growth rings create a cathedral figure on flat-sawn surfaces. Characteristic large rays are visible on the radial surface.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, commonly with a reddish cast or pinkish tint. Sapwood is light brown to white. Color tends to darken slightly with age and UV exposure, becoming more amber.
Hardness (Janka)
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable to non-durable; poor resistance to decay and insects. Moisture can cause significant staining and rot in exterior applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.50 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern/Recently Milled. The wood shows fresh surfacing, lack of oxidation, and rough-cut edges typical of modern construction or hobbyist lumber.
- Sustainability Status
- Extremely sustainable; classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, paneling, veneer, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though the open pores may require grain filler for a glass-smooth finish. High tannin content can react with iron and water to produce black stains.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane and oil-based varnishes work exceptionally well. Penetrating oils (like Danish oil) highlight the grain. Alcohol-based stains or dyes are recommended to avoid grain raising. Filling pores with a grain filler is common for table tops and floors.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, slightly acidic scent when being worked. Known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and distinctive porous end grain that can actually conduct air through the length of a short board.
