Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately durable. Susceptible to insect attack and decay if exposed to moisture, as red oak is a ring-porous wood with open pores.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with prominent open pores and a coarse texture, typical of flat-sawn or plain-sawn oak lumber.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown with a distinct pinkish or reddish tint in the heartwood. Sapwood is lighter, nearly white to pale brown, with moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable. Susceptible to insect attack and decay if exposed to moisture, as red oak is a ring-porous wood with open pores.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and region
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern stock, estimated between 1 to 10 years old based on surface condition and lack of heavy historical oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant and sustainable, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, interior cabinetry, interior millwork, trim, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though open pores may require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer. Wood stains take very well, and grain filler can be used for a gloss finish.
Notable Features
High porosity allowing liquids to pass through easily (making untreated red oak unsuitable for outdoor liquid containment), distinctive coarse grain and rays.
