Red Oak Logs for Sale
Buy and sell Red Oak logs in Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia. A versatile hardwood favored for flooring, cabinets, and furniture production.
Red Oak: The Workhorse Hardwood
Red Oak (Quercus rubra) is one of the most abundant and widely used hardwoods in America. Its consistent grain, workability, and attractive reddish-brown color make it a go-to choice for flooring, cabinetry, and general furniture production.
While Red Oak doesn't command the premium prices of White Oak (it's porous and can't be used for barrels), it remains in steady demand from flooring manufacturers, pallet producers, and furniture makers. Its abundance in the Appalachian region means there's always a market for quality Red Oak logs.
Red Oak machines well, takes stain evenly, and produces a classic hardwood floor look that homeowners love. Mills throughout Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia actively buy Red Oak sawlogs year-round.
Flooring
America's most popular hardwood floor
Cabinets
Kitchen and bathroom cabinetry
Furniture
Tables, chairs, and bedroom sets
Pallets
Industrial pallets and crates
Red Oak Log Types
- Veneer Logs: Top grade with clear faces and large diameter. Used for furniture and architectural panels.
- Sawlogs: Standard grade for lumber production. The bread and butter of most mills - used for flooring, furniture parts, and millwork.
- Tie Logs: Lower grade logs suitable for railroad ties and industrial timbers.
- Pallet Logs: Economy grade for pallet and crate manufacturing. High volume, steady demand.
- Pulpwood: Small diameter or defective logs for paper and chip production.
Red Oak Grading & Pricing
Red Oak prices are generally lower than White Oak but remain stable due to consistent demand. Here's a general guide:
| Grade | Min. Diameter | Typical Use | Price Range* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veneer | 18"+ | Furniture, panels | $500-1,000+/MBF |
| Prime | 14"+ | Flooring, furniture | $300-500/MBF |
| #1 | 12"+ | General lumber | $200-350/MBF |
| #2/Tie | 10"+ | Ties, pallets | $100-200/MBF |
| Pallet | 8"+ | Pallets, crates | $75-150/MBF |
Red Oak vs. White Oak
Key Differences
- Porosity: Red Oak has open pores; White Oak has closed pores (making it waterproof for barrels).
- Color: Red Oak has a pinkish-red hue; White Oak is more tan/brown.
- Price: White Oak typically commands 30-50% higher prices due to barrel demand.
- Uses: Red Oak for flooring and furniture; White Oak adds barrels and outdoor use.
- Availability: Red Oak is more abundant and easier to source.
Not sure which species you have? Look at the end grain - White Oak has a tighter, less visible pore pattern. Or contact us and we can help you identify your logs.
Selling Red Oak on JMLogMarket
Red Oak sells consistently year-round. Here's how to get the best results:
- Post for free. No listing fees, no commissions on sales.
- Show the ends. Photos of log ends help buyers assess quality.
- Note the diameter. Larger logs bring better prices per MBF.
- Be clear on quantity. Truckload, number of logs, or board feet.
- Mention defects. Honest listings build trust and sell faster.
Red Oak may not be the glamour species, but it pays the bills. Mills need it, and JMLogMarket helps you find those buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Oak Logs
What are Red Oak logs worth?
Red Oak log prices are generally lower than White Oak. Veneer-grade Red Oak brings $500–$1,000+ per MBF (Doyle scale), prime sawlogs sell for $300–$500 per MBF, and #1 common grade ranges from $200–$350 per MBF. Pallet-grade Red Oak starts around $75–$150 per MBF. Prices vary by region, diameter, and market conditions.
What is the difference between Red Oak and White Oak?
The main differences are porosity, color, and price. Red Oak has open pores making it unsuitable for barrels or outdoor use, while White Oak has closed pores (tyloses) making it watertight. Red Oak has a pinkish-red hue; White Oak is more tan or brown. White Oak typically commands 30–50% higher prices due to bourbon barrel demand. To tell them apart, look at the end grain — White Oak has a tighter, less visible pore pattern.
Where can I sell Red Oak logs?
You can list Red Oak logs for free on JMLogMarket. Post your logs with photos, diameter, quantity, and location, and buyers in Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, and surrounding states will contact you directly. Red Oak sells consistently year-round to flooring mills, furniture manufacturers, and pallet operations.
Ready to Buy or Sell Red Oak?
Browse current Red Oak listings or post your own. It's free and takes just a few minutes.