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Oak Wood Last Updated:[2/19/2006 2:33:00 PM]
The oaks-red and white-are the most abundant U.S. hardwood species. It would be difficult to name a wood with a longer and more illustrious history in furnishings and interior design.
Oak was a favorite of early English craftsmen and a prized material for American Colonists. White oak is just one of 86 oak species native to this country, but it is the classic oak of America.
Although prevalent throughout the eastern half of the United States, from Maine to Texas, white oak lumber comes chiefly from the South, South Atlantic and Central States, including the southern Appalachians.
Red oak grows only in North America and is found further north than any other oak species.
A big, slow growing tree, red oak takes 20 years to mature and lives an average of 300 years.
Grain: The wood is most often straight grained, and open pored. It can be steam bent with caution. The grain is distinguished by rays, which reflect light and add to its attractiveness.
Many distinctive and sought after patterns emerge: flake figures, pin stripes, fine lines, leafy grains and watery figures.
Characteristics: Heavy, very strong and very hard, stiff, durable under exposure, great wear-resistance, holds nails and screws well.
Durability: Stiff and dense; resists wear, with high shock resistance, though less durable than white oak.
Color: White Oak- ranges from nearly white sapwood to a darker gray brown heartwood, Red Oak-ranges from nearly white cream color to a beautiful warm, pale brown heartwood, tinted with red.
Finishing: Oaks can be stained beautifully with a wide range of finish tones.
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