Red Oak
Arguably the most popular hardwood in the United States, Red Oak is a ubiquitous sight in many homes. Even many vinyl/imitation wood surfaces are printed to look like Red Oak. Widespread throughout Eastern U.S. Oaks are, by far, the most abundant species group growing in the Eastern hardwood forests. Red oaks grow more abundantly than white oaks. The red oak group comprises many species, of which about eight are commercial.
General Description
The sapwood of red oak is white to light brown and the heartwood is a pinkish-reddish brown. The wood is similar in general appearance to white oak, but with a slightly less-pronounced figure due to the smaller rays. The wood is mostly straight-grained, with a coarse texture.
Working Properties
It machines well. Pre-boring is recommended for nailing and screwing. It can be stained to a golden finish, with a wide range of finish tones.
Physical Properties
Red oak is hard and heavy, with medium-bending strength and stiffness and high-crushing strength.
| Wood Type | Hardwood | Texture | Grain is straight, with a coarse, uneven texture. |
| Durability | Non-durable to perishable | Availability | Abundant availability in a good range of widths and thicknesses, both as flatsawn and quartersawn lumber. |
| Odor | Tell-tale smell | Price | Moderate |
| Sustainability | This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. | Use(s) | Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, and veneer. |
| Density (mean, Kg/m³) | 700 (Density can vary by 20% or more) | Colour(s) | Nearly white to light brown. |