Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent cathedral grain, coarse texture, and very large, open pores that are visually distinct on the face grain.
Color Description
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with a distinct pinkish or red cast. Sapwood is light brown to white. Wood tends to darken slightly and become more amber over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable to non-durable regarding heartwood decay. It has poor resistance to moisture and insects compared to White Oak; it lacks the tyloses that plug pores.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, veneer, and tool handles. Highly popular in residential construction for its strength and aesthetic.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the clean milling and lack of deep oxidation, this appears to be a modern piece of lumber or flooring, likely harvested and processed within the last 5-10 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is widely available and considered highly sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It has moderate shrinkage during drying. It glues, stains, and finishes well. Large pores can cause tea-out if tools are dull.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'vinegar' scent when being worked or wet. Known for its ring-porous structure which allows for excellent stain absorption. High tannin content can react with iron and water to create black stains.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane is most common for durability in flooring. It takes stains exceptionally well due to open pores. If a smooth surface is desired, a grain filler is recommended before top-coating.
Identification Confidence
High; the open-grain structure, reddish-pink hue, and 'cathedral' figure are classic diagnostic indicators of flat-sawn Red Oak.