Red Oak
Quercus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Moderately Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn faces, featuring characteristic open pores and visible ray fleck.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown, while sapwood is a paler whitish to light brown. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a richer amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Moderately Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled to a few years old based on clean edges and lack of heavy oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, and general construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and saws well, but open pores require grain filler for a perfectly smooth finish. Nails and glues well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, lacquers, and polyurethanes exceptionally well. Use a grain filler prior to topcoating if a smooth, glass-like finish is desired.
Notable Features
Porous end grain and coarse texture. Contains high levels of tannins which can react with iron-based fasteners to cause dark stains.
