Red Oak
Quercus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse, porous texture with prominent cathedral grain figure. The flat-sawn panel displays distinct annual rings and large, open pores typical of the red oak group.
Color Description
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with a warm amber tone. Sapwood is generally lighter. The wood has developed a golden patina due to light exposure and finish aging.
Hardness Rating
1,290 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Slightly Durable; susceptible to rot and insect attack if not properly sealed; poor moisture resistance compared to White Oak due to open tyloses.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, and paneling.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 to $6.00 per board foot (standard lumber)
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated at 20-40 years, based on the cabinet design, hardware style, and the depth of the ambering in the finish.
Sustainability Status
Extremely sustainable; plentiful in North American forests; widely available with FSC certification; not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; responds well to steam bending; glues and finishes well, though the large pores may require a grain filler for smooth finishes.
Notable Features
Distinctive slightly acidic scent when being worked; high tannin content; large open pores that are visible to the naked eye; lacks the plugged tyloses of White Oak.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oil-based varnish is typically used. Because of the open grain, a paste wood filler can be used if a glass-smooth surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The large open pores, prominent cathedral grain pattern, and reddish-gold hue are textbook indicators of Red Oak commonly used in residential cabinetry.