Known for its durability, strength, and timeless appearance, Oak Wood is commonly found in traditional, craftsman, and mission-style furniture and is the wood of choice for the Amish, as well as famed furniture designers Gustav Stickley and Frank Lloyd Wright. While there are many species of oak wood to choose from, two of the most common are red oak and white oak.
While these two species might appear similar at first glance, they each have distinct differences that affect their look and feel. So, which species of wood should you choose when shopping for a piece of furniture? Let’s break down the key differences between red oak and white oak to help you make the right choice.
Appearance
Oak’s unique grain pattern makes it one of the easier species to recognize. In fact, oak has a long history of use around the home dating back to pre-colonial times, and remains just as popular today. While this makes it a mainstay in traditional design, its versatility means that it can also make a modern piece come to life.
Below, we dive into the differences in color and grain pattern in red oak vs. white oak:
Color
- Red Oak: As its name suggests, red oak has a warm, reddish hue that ranges from light brown with pinkish undertones to darker shades of red. This color makes it a popular choice for those seeking a warm, inviting feel in their space.
- White Oak: White oak, on the other hand, has a more neutral color palette. It typically ranges from light brown to beige or yellow tones. Its subtle color makes it versatile and easy to stain, making it a favorite for modern, rustic, or minimalist designs.
Grain Patterns
- Red Oak: Red oak features a more pronounced grain pattern with swirls, waves, and even streaks. This makes it a great choice for those looking for unique pieces where the wood grain stands out and adds character to your space.
- White Oak: White oak has a tighter, straighter grain pattern. While it’s less dramatic than red oak, its smooth, consistent appearance lends itself to sleek, contemporary designs.
Durability and Strength
Both red oak and white oak are known for their hardness and strength, but white oak has the edge in durability. Rated slightly higher on the Janka hardness scale (a measure of wood hardness), white oak is more resistant to dents, scratches, and moisture damage. This makes it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. Red oak, on the other hand, is preferred for indoor projects where it won’t encounter as much wear and tear.
Moisture Resistance
While part of the same family, red and white oak handle moisture very differently. We dive in deeper below:
- Red Oak: Red oak is less resistant to moisture, which makes it more prone to warping and rotting when exposed to humid environments. This makes it a better choice for indoor projects, such as furniture, cabinetry, or trim.
- White Oak: Thanks to its tighter grain and closed-cell structure, white oak is naturally more resistant to moisture. This makes it ideal for indoor uses that may encounter moisture, like kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities.
Workability
Both types of oak are relatively easy to work with, but there are some differences between the two:
- Red Oak: Red oak is often easier to saw and sand due to its slightly less dense nature. Its open grain structure also makes it more receptive to stains and finishes, allowing for a wide range of color customization.
- White Oak: While white oak can still be worked with standard woodworking tools, it’s denser and harder, which can make cutting, sanding, and shaping a bit more labor-intensive. However, its smooth grain takes finishes beautifully, resulting in a more polished look.
For more on oak wood, visit our page dedicated to the subject. To see our variety of solid wood furniture, be sure to browse our collection.
