Red Oak (2026)
Quercus rubra • Eastern United States
Hardwood
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Red Oak is one of the most popular domestic hardwoods for flooring and furniture.
Key Takeaways
- Red Oak has a Janka hardness of 1,290 lbf and density of 44 lbs/ft³.
- Common uses include Hardwood flooring, Furniture, Cabinetry.
- Color: Light reddish-brown to pinkish.
- Moderate for indoor use.
Janka Hardness
1,290 lbf
Density
44 lbs/ft³
Moisture
12-15%
Fire Rating
Class B
Durability
Class C - Indoor use
Price Range
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Color Characteristics
Light reddish-brown to pinkish
Key Characteristics
- •Hard and durable
- •Prominent open grain
- •Reddish undertones
- •Easy to work
- •Takes stains well
- •Good strength
- •Open pores
- •Consistent grain
Common Applications
- •Hardwood flooring
- •Furniture
- •Cabinetry
- •Interior trim
- •Veneer
- •Paneling
- •General construction
Maintenance Requirements
Moderate for indoor use.
Advantages
- Affordable
- Classic appearance
- Easy to work
- Takes stains beautifully
- Good hardness
- Consistent grain
- Good value
- Abundant supply
Considerations
- Open pores not water-resistant
- Indoor only
- Not as durable as White Oak
- Mineral streaks
- Prominent grain
- Requires finish
- Tannins stain
- Not outdoor
Frequently Asked Questions
Hardwood flooring, Furniture, Cabinetry, Interior trim, Veneer, Paneling, General construction.
Red Oak has a Janka hardness rating of 1,290 lbf, making it a softer wood suitable for Hardwood flooring, Furniture, Cabinetry.
Red Oak wood is Light reddish-brown to pinkish. Hard and durable
Moderate for indoor use.
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