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 heartwood has moderate resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a prominent cathedral pattern from flat-sawing, showing open and porous texture.
Color & Appearance
Light pinkish-brown to reddish-brown heartwood with lighter pale brown sapwood. Low natural luster, tends to darken slightly to a warm amber with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable. Non-resistant to decay when in contact with the ground, though heartwood has moderate resistance.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, likely dried within the last 1 to 3 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List. Widely available and sustainably managed in North America.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, 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 well, glues, stains, and finishes easily, though open pores require grain filler for a smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, lacquers, and polyurethane exceptionally well. Paste wood filler is recommended if a completely smooth, glass-like finish is desired.
Notable Features
Distinctive coarse texture and open porous end-grain structure. High tannin content can react with iron to cause staining.
