Red oak is the most plentiful species of oak in the United States. It is the third most popular hardwood behind cherry and maple. Average height ranges from 60 to 80 feet with a 1 to 3 foot trunk. The sapwood of red oak is white to light brown and the heartwood is a pinkish, reddish brown. The wood is similar in general appearance to white oak, but with a slightly less pronounced figure due to the smaller rays. It is mostly straight-grained, with a coarse texture. Weight averages about 48 pounds per cubic foot.

Red oak is a dense, hard wood with very good steam-bending characteristics. Frequent uses of red oak include kitchen cabinetry, wall paneling, furniture (especially for Mission and Arts and Craft style furniture), flooring, millwork, boxes, crates, caskets, coffins, timbers, handles, pallets, agricultural tools, boats, and wooden ware.

Cutting surfaces should be kept sharpened. Pre-boring is recommended. The wood finishes well, but because of its open pores, wood should be filled prior to finishing or painting.