White Oak vs Red Oak

Oak is very popular choice when it comes to hardwood flooring here in North Carolina, actually the whole Northeastern area. It’s not only durable but very easy to find. Comparing to other species in harwood flooring, the price is very affordable and quite versatile as it can be stained in any color. If you already have oak flooring install in your house and you want to add additional flooring make sure you match what your already have that way when you stain the floors it will look evenly, if you need help to know what type of floors are installed contact a local floor specialist. With that being said what is different between these two species?

White Oak

Red Oak

Let’s talk about the Color. White Oak is a darker wood than Red Oak. White oak is a mixture of browns and tans ranging from darker brown to beige. In the other hand, red oak has a pinkish undertone and lighter. Since both species have a different color undertone once you stain them it will absorb differently. if you decide to go with a darker stain it will diminish the darker you go, if you decide to go lighter with the stain, the Red Oak will have a red undertone since the lighter and white washes the Red Oak.

Hardness: when it comes to hardness white oak tends to be a bit harder than red oak. On the janka hardness scale white oak is 1360 and red oak is 1260, even though Red Oak is a bit less hard it tends to show less the dents,

Graining: When it comes to graining, white oak tends to have a smoother look, the grains are usually straight and tighter than Red Oak and when it’s a darker wood the grains are less noticeable. Red Oak is more unique it has a stronger grain, usually like a zigzag patter or wavy lines and some customers tend to go more with Red Oak because of the stronger appearances. It’s just the matter of likes and preference since they both look great!

Resistant to Water: When it comes to water resistant white oak is more resistant since is a closed grain wood Its very common for white oak to be used in boat building since the many pores are plugged with tyloses making it more resistant. We always recommend for white oak to be on the front door jams as well in other areas that water is exposed.

Both Red Oak and White Oak a very good choice is just the matter of preferences, they last a very good time. Have in mind to choose as well that compliments what type of décor you are going to use to have a very good contrast.  
  


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