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At The Hardwood Guys, we understand that choosing the right type of wood flooring for your home can be a daunting task. With so many different species of wood available, it can be challenging to decide which one is the best fit for your needs. One of the most common choices for hardwood flooring is oak, and within the oak family, there are two primary types: red oak and white oak. In this article, we'll explore the differences between these two types of oak and help you make an informed decision.


We refinished the job that the previous installer added both red oak. We were lucky enough that the customer choose a natural look and we were able to show a "finished" installation of both Red and White Oak. When they are stained a med-dark stain, these differences can be hidden.


Appearance

One of the most apparent differences between red oak and white oak is their appearance. Red oak has a pinkish or reddish tint, while white oak has a more yellowish or tan hue. Additionally, red oak has a more pronounced grain pattern with longer rays, while white oak has a more subtle and uniform grain pattern. Both types of oak can be stained to achieve a specific color, but the natural hues of each wood will still be visible.

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Durability

Both red oak and white oak are durable hardwoods, but white oak is slightly denser and harder than red oak. This means that white oak is less susceptible to dents and scratches, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas or homes with pets. However, both types of oak are suitable for most residential applications and can last for many years with proper maintenance.


Stability

Another crucial factor to consider when choosing wood flooring is its stability. Wood can expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause gaps and cracks to develop. White oak is slightly more stable than red oak, thanks to its denser structure. This means that white oak is less likely to warp or bend when exposed to moisture. However, both types of oak can be acclimated to their environment to minimize the effects of temperature and humidity changes.


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Price

Finally, it's worth considering the cost of each type of oak. While the price can vary depending on the specific grade and quality of the wood, red oak is generally less expensive than white oak. This is because red oak is more abundant than white oak and easier to work with, making it a popular choice for flooring manufacturers.


In conclusion, both red oak and white oak are excellent choices for hardwood flooring, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and your specific needs. If you're looking for a hardwood with a distinct grain pattern and warm hues, red oak may be the best choice. If you need a more durable and stable option, white oak is an excellent choice. Most customers that want a farmhouse look or a natural look will choose white oak to prevent the red hues to show through. We also have Bona Red Out that will allow us to minimize some of these red hues. Regardless of which type of oak you choose, we're confident that it will add beauty and value to your home for many years to come.



The Woodwise White Oak Test Kit is a simple and convenient tool for identifying the presence of oak in wood samples. It is commonly used in the construction and woodworking industries, as well as by hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.

To use the test kit, all you need is the kit itself, a hammer, a screwdriver, and a wood sample. Simply remove the plastic cap from the test kit, place the wood sample onto a flat surface, and tap the end of the test kit onto the wood using the hammer. The liquid solution in the vial will change color, indicating the presence of oak.

You can then compare the color of the solution to the color chart provided with the test kit to determine the percentage of oak in the wood sample. It's that easy!

In addition to its simplicity and convenience, the Woodwise White Oak Test Kit is also highly accurate, making it a reliable choice for identifying oak in wood samples. So whether you're a professional in the construction or woodworking industry, or just a DIY enthusiast looking for an easy way to identify oak in your wood projects, the Woodwise White Oak Test Kit is a great tool to have on hand.

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Step by Step Guide:

  1. First, gather all the necessary materials. You will need the Woodwise White Oak Test Kit, a scraper, to make the shavings from the sample of wood that you would like to test.

  2. Remove the plastic cap from the test kits. You should see two small vial filled with a liquid solution. Pour a 50/50 mix of the two liquids into the sample plates.

  3. Use your scraper to produce the shavings from the piece of oak.

  4. Take your shavings of wood and carefully place it onto the provided white sample plates.

  5. Use something to help stir the shavings thouroughly into the liquid.

  6. After a few minutes, the liquid solution in the vial should will either stay the same or turn super black. This black color change indicates the presence of white oak in the wood sample.

  7. Compare the color of the solution to the color chart provided in the test kit. This will help you determine the type of oak in the wood sample.

  8. Once you have determined the type of oak in the wood sample, simply replace the plastic cap on the test kits and store it in a safe place for future use.


This picture shows both red and white color changes using the Wood Wise Test Kit
Wood Wise Test Kit Sample Showing Both Red and White Oak

My favorite wood hands down is White Oak. There are differenct grades and all are beautiful and wonderful can enhance the look of any home. The grain patterns of character grade white oak are distinctive and varied, with subtle differences in color and texture that create a rustic, natural look. Character grade wood is selected for its unique features, such as knots, burls, and other natural imperfections, which add depth and character to the flooring. These imperfections are part of what gives character grade white oak its charm and adds warmth and character to a room. In addition to its attractive appearance, white oak is also a durable and hard-wearing wood, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas. Overall, character grade white oak hardwood floors are a stunning and enduring choice for any home.


We are offering a special price of just $2.99 PSF for the Materials. White Supplies Last. Must Include Labor and Refinishing for This Price to be valid.




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