Two of the most popular options for stair treads are red oak and white oak. Both species have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, making it important to carefully consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.
Red Oak
Red oak is known for its stunning reddish-brown color and distinctive grain patterns. It's a durable and sturdy wood that is well suited for heavy foot traffic and offers good resistance to wear and tear. Additionally, red oak is relatively affordable and widely available. This makes it one of the most popular - if not the most popular - choice for many homeowners and builders.
White Oak
White oak is favored for its strength, durability and stability. It's a strong and dense wood that can withstand heavy foot traffic and has excellent resistance to wear and tear. White oak has a light to medium brown color, with a distinctive and attractive grain pattern. However, it is more expensive than red oak and can be more difficult to find due to strong international and domestic demand.
How do I decide?
The choice between red oak and white oak for stair treads comes down to a few key factors: what flooring you're trying to match, what's your personal preference and what's your budget. Both woods are strong and durable, and are well suited for heavy foot traffic. If you're looking for a wood that is relatively affordable and widely available, red oak may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you're willing to spend a little extra and value the distinctive grain patterns and durability of white oak, it may be a better choice.
Consider your individual needs, the look you want to achieve, and the amount you're willing to spend, and you're sure to make the right choice for your home or building.
Want to learn about other domestic wood species? Click here to read about other species including ash, cherry, and more.