Red Oak (Northern or Southern)
Quercus rubra (Northern) / Quercus falcata (Southern) · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1290 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood is rated as moderately durable to non-durable regarding decay resistance and is susceptible to insect attack if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn (plain-sawn) showing pronounced cathedral grain patterns on the face, with visible growth rings and an occasional knot. Porous end grain.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to pinkish heartwood with a lighter, pale sapwood. Moderate natural luster with typical aging to a slightly deeper amber tone under light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1290 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood is rated as moderately durable to non-durable regarding decay resistance and is susceptible to insect attack if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, approximately $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated to be freshly dried within the last few months to a year, showing minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant, not listed on CITES, readily available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, interior trim, cabinetry, general construction, and millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes, turns, glues, and finishes well, though open pores require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well. Use a grain filler if a flat, glass-smooth finish is desired.
Notable Features
Distinct open-cell porous structure visible in end grain, high tannin content which can react with iron to cause dark staining.
