Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately durable. Non-resistant to decay when in contact with the ground, though it offers moderate resistance to weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced cathedral pattern typical of flat-sawn hardwood boards, showing distinct growth ring boundaries.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with a paler sapwood. Exhibits a natural warm luster that tends to darken slightly to a rich amber tone over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable. Non-resistant to decay when in contact with the ground, though it offers moderate resistance to weathering.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 10 to 30 years old based on modern milling marks and standard surface finishing.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
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. Responds well to gluing, screwing, and nailing, though pre-boring is recommended to prevent splitting.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, and clears exceptionally well. Polyurethane, lacquer, or hardening oils provide a durable protective layer.
Notable Features
Open grain structure with large pores visible on the surface. Contains high levels of tannins, making it reactive to iron-based compounds.
