Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral grain with coarse, open texture and visible large pores typical of the red oak group
Color Description
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with thinner, light-colored sapwood; exhibits a pinkish tint and tends to darken slightly over time with amber tones
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly durable to non-durable; poor resistance to rot and insect attack compared to white oak due to lack of tyloses in pores
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, paneling, and veneer
Geographic Origin
Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $6.50 per board foot depending on grade and region
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 1–5 years based on lack of significant oxidation or patina
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it has moderate shrinkage and can react with iron to cause staining
Notable Features
Distinctive vinegary scent when green or wet; high tannin content; large open pores that require grain filler for a smooth finish
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer are best for protection; use a grain filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired; accepts stains very evenly
Identification Confidence
High; the prominent cathedral grain figure combined with the reddish hue and open-pore structure is diagnostic for flat-sawn Red Oak.