Quarter Sawn Red Oak Wood Guide 2026
Quercus rubra
Typically described as stable red oak with ray fleck
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 47 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Flooring, Mission-style furniture, Millwork
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: The texture is coarse and uneven.
Workability: It machines well but can be abrasive to cutting edges.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: The prominent ray fleck pattern takes stain well.
Color change: It shows minimal color shift but can yellow slightly under lacquer.
Insect resistance: It has poor resistance to insect and fungal 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 Quarter Sawn Red Oak. 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 are standard. | Random lengths are available. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths are standard. | Random lengths are available. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths are standard. | Random lengths are available. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths are standard. | Random lengths are available. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths are standard.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are available.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are available.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are available.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are available.
Availability notes: It is widely available throughout North America.
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 with prominent rays
Common Uses
- Flooring
- Mission-style furniture
- Millwork
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Quarter Sawn Red Oak;Ray Fleck 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 Quarter Sawn Red Oak is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Explore More on Lumberama
Popular Applications
Comparisons
Calculators & Tools
Related Blog Posts
Heat Pump Guide: Types, Cost & How They Work
Heat and cool your home efficiently with one system.
Read articleAir Conditioning Guide: Types, Cost & Efficiency
Stay cool and save money on cooling.
Read articleFurnace Guide: Types, Cost & Maintenance
Keep your home warm and efficient.
Read article