Red Oak Wood Guide 2026
Quercus rubra
Strong and porous domestic oak, ideal for furniture and flooring
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 48 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States
- Price: ~$7.25 per board foot
- 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.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Open pores take stain readily; fill for glass-smooth finish.
Color change: Pinkish tan ambers with age.
Insect resistance: Susceptible
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 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, 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.
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 with prominent rays
Common Uses
- Flooring
- Cabinetry
- Furniture
- Millwork
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Northern Red Oak
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,290 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States
- Affordable pricing
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 Red Oak is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Compare This Wood
Red Oak vs White Oak
White oak has surpassed red oak in popularity and versatility. Its neutral color, closed pores, and design flexibility make it the better all-around choice for most modern projects. Red oak remains a solid, affordable option for traditional applications.
View comparisonWhite Oak vs Red Oak
White oak is the clear trend leader for new kitchens in 2026. Red oak remains a solid functional choice but carries a dated perception that can affect resale appeal. For new construction or remodels, white oak is the safer investment.
View comparisonRed Oak vs White Oak
White oak is the current design favorite for its neutral tones and water resistance. Red oak remains an excellent value for traditional pieces.
View comparisonWhite Oak vs Red Oak
White oak is the current favorite for modern design. Red oak is a great value for traditional aesthetics.
View comparisonExplore More on Lumberama
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