Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; non-resistant to heartwood decay and vulnerable to insect attack if exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a coarse, open texture; primarily flat-sawn and quarter-sawn boards visible showing distinct growth rings and occasional subtle cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown, while sapwood is a lighter, pale brown to whitish color. Exhibits moderate color variation between individual boards, with a natural warm luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; non-resistant to heartwood decay and vulnerable to insect attack if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and region
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 10-30 years old, typical of modern residential hardwood strip flooring with mild surface oxidation and wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern. Widely abundant and sustainably harvested with FSC certification options available.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, architectural millwork, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Favorable workability; machines well, glues, takes nails and screws easily, though pre-boring is recommended. Can be prone to splitting when hand nailing near edges.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, water-based or oil-based finishes, and conversion varnishes perform exceptionally well. Wood grain filler may be used if a completely flat, glass-like finish is desired.
Notable Features
Open, porous grain structure with prominent growth rings and high porosity requiring grain filler for completely smooth finishes; distinct reddish undertones.
