Red Oak (likely Northern Red Oak)
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood is rated as moderately durable to non-durable regarding decay resistance and is vulnerable to insect attack if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Prominent open grain with a mix of flat-sawn cathedral patterns on the left and tighter rift/quarter-sawn grain on the right side.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with a distinct pinkish-reddish hue in the heartwood. Luster is moderate, and the wood typically darkens to a richer amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood is rated as moderately durable to non-durable regarding decay resistance and is vulnerable to insect attack if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and region
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent/freshly milled to a few years old, showing minimal surface oxidation or patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely abundant and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, architectural millwork, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and shapes well, though open pores require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish. Glues, stains, and nails well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well. A grain filler is recommended prior to topcoating if a completely glass-smooth finish is desired.
Notable Features
Coarse texture with large, open pores visible on the end grain. Distinctive ring-porous structure and characteristic reddish-brown undertones.
