Oak
GENUS: QUERCUS
Oak is a widely planted large tree adaptable to many soil conditions. It has an attractive dark red fall color in autumn, and some leaves will hang on the tree through the winter.
Characteristics
Color / Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium brown. Nearly white to light brown sapwood is not always sharply demarcated from the heartwood. Quartersawn sections display prominent ray fleck patterns.
Grain / Texture
Grain is straight, with a coarse, uneven texture. The pores are so large and open that it is said that a person can blow into one end of the wood, and air will come out the other end: provided that the grain runs straight enough.
Workability
Produces good results with hand and machine tools. Has moderately high shrinkage values, resulting in mediocre dimensional stability, especially in flatsawn boards. Can react with iron (particularly when wet) and cause staining and discoloration. Responds well to steam-bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, and veneer
Characteristics and photo used by permission from The Wood Database