Red Oak

Sources

North America

Other Names

Northern Oak & Mountain Oak

Characteristics

A reddish brown wood with medium to coarse texture. Straight grain and medium strength.

Milling

Planes well & can have a tendency to chip when the grain curves towards the edge.

Shaping

Easy to cut & takes a superb edge.

Finishing

Takes all finish applications very well.

Key Uses

Furniture, cabinet making, & flooring.

Comments

Another of the most commonly used woods in New England & is always avilable in a wide variety of lengths, widths, & thicknesses.

Reference 1: Gibbs, N. (2005). The Real Wood Bible.
Buffalo, NY: Firefly Books.

Reference 2: Flynn, J.H. & Holder, C.D. (2001).
A Guide to Useful Woods of the World.
Madison, WI: Forest Products Society.