Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack and rot if left untreated outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced coarse texture and prominent open pores typical of ring-porous hardwoods, featuring flat-sawn cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with a distinct reddish tint in the heartwood and paler sapwood, displaying moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack and rot if left untreated outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, estimated between 1 to 10 years old based on clean milling and minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant, not CITES listed, readily available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, planes and sands well, but requires care when nailing or screwing near edges to prevent splitting.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, lacquer, and polyurethane exceptionally well; grain filler is often used if a perfectly smooth surface is desired.
Notable Features
High porosity allows open-grain finishes; distinctive coarse texture and ray fleck patterns when quarter-sawn.
