Red Oak

Red Oak is similar to other oaks and coloration runs from a light tan to pink with a reddish tinge. The wood is predominantly straight grained and coarse textured. Red Oak has a somewhat less attractive figure than White Oak due to smaller rays. Red oak may also be known as American Red Oak, Gray Oak, Spanish Oak or Northern Red Oak. Red oak has a high crush strength, medium bending strength and stiffness and considered a very good steam bending wood. Red oak has a moderate blunting effect on cutters. Density varies. Gluing properties vary and nailing may require pre-drilling. Takes stain well and polishes to a good finish. Red oak is suitable for furniture, veneer, interior joinery, flooring, plywood. Not suitable for exterior work. The grain of red oak may need to be filled to achieve smooth finish.