Oak (Red) Wood Guide 2026
Quercus rubra
Typically described as strong and porous domestic oak
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 27 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Flooring, Cabinetry, Furniture
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Coarse
Workability: Machines, glues and finishes well; open pores telegraph through thin films.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Open pores take stain readily; use filler for a glass-smooth finish.
Color change: Pinkish tan ambers slightly with age.
Insect resistance: Susceptible to insects and decay
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Oak (Red). Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths, typically 4–12 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths, typically 4–12 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths, typically 4–12 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths, typically 4–12 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
| 10/4 | 2-1/2" | 2-1/4" | Random widths, typically 4–12 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
| 12/4 | 3" | 2-3/4" | Random widths, typically 4–12 in. | Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths, typically 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths, typically 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths, typically 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths, typically 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
- 10/4rough 2-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 2-1/4"
- Widths
- Random widths, typically 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
- 12/4rough 3"
- Surfaced
- 2-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths, typically 4–12 in.
- Lengths
- Random lengths, typically 6–16 ft
Availability notes: One of the most widely available domestic hardwoods; interior use only.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Light brown with red tint
Grain: Straight; coarse texture
Common Uses
- Flooring
- Cabinetry
- Furniture
- Millwork
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Red Oak;Northern Red Oak
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,290 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Oak (Red) is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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