Northern Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight-grained, coarse texture, with a distinctive cathedral pattern when flat-sawn. Large, open pores are visible. Quartersawn lumber shows smaller, less prominent ray flecks than White Oak.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown, commonly with a reddish cast or pinkish tint. Sapwood is light-colored, ranging from white to light brown. Finishes to a warm golden tone but can amber over time.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable to non-durable; poor resistance to rot and fungal decay. Vulnerable to insect attack.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, fine furniture, interior trim, veneer, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern USA and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 to $7.00 per board foot (4/4 Select & Better FAS).
Wood Age Estimate
Identifying from a live specimen; leaves and acorns indicate a mature branch from a tree likely 20-60 years old.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed; generally considered highly sustainable in North America.
Workability
Easy to work with both machine and hand tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well. Due to large pores, it requires a grain filler if a smooth, glass-like finish is desired.
Notable Features
Distinctive tannic scent when worked. High tannin content can cause dark staining if the wood comes into contact with iron and moisture.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains very consistently. Polyurethane and lacquer are common for floors and cabinets; penetrating oils highlight the grain beautifully.
Identification Confidence
High; identification based on the illustrated bristle-tipped lobes of the leaves and the shallow, saucer-like caps of the acorns, which are diagnostic for Quercus rubra.