Rift Sawn Red Oak Wood Guide 2026
Quercus rubra
Typically described as stable straight-grained red oak
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 35 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Modern cabinetry, Flooring, Paneling
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Coarse and uneven texture common to the species.
Workability: Generally easy to machine despite its hardness.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Pores are large and often require a grain filler for smooth surfaces.
Color change: Darkens slightly to a warmer amber tone over time.
Insect resistance: Low resistance to decay and insect attack.
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 Rift 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) | Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches. | Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches. | Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches. | Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches. | Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 12/4 | 3" | 2-3/4" | Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches. | Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches.
- Lengths
- Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches.
- Lengths
- Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches.
- Lengths
- Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches.
- Lengths
- Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet.
- 12/4rough 3"
- Surfaced
- 2-3/4"
- Widths
- Typically available in random widths from 3 to 10 inches.
- Lengths
- Available in random lengths from 6 to 16 feet.
Availability notes: Very 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 vertical grain
Common Uses
- Modern cabinetry
- Flooring
- Paneling
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Rift Cut Red Oak;Vertical Grain Oak
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,290 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Rift Sawn Red Oak is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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