Oak Hardwood Flooring

Oak is the workhorse of American hardwood flooring - about 65% of what we install. Two species dominate: red oak and white oak.

Red oak

• Reddish-pink undertone. Warmer cast, especially with natural finish.
• Open grain pattern. Visible grain, takes stain unevenly compared to white oak.
• Slightly softer than white oak (Janka 1290 vs 1360).
• More affordable - typically the budget-friendly oak option.

White oak

• Cooler, browner undertone. Modern preference. Takes grey, white-washed, and natural finishes beautifully.
• Tighter grain pattern. Cleaner look, takes stain more evenly.
• Slightly harder than red oak.
• Premium pricing - typically 10 - 20% more than red oak.

Which we recommend in 2026

70% of our hardwood installs today are white oak. The cooler tone matches contemporary interiors, the grain pattern photographs better, and clients often prefer it once they see both species side-by-side.

That said, red oak is still excellent and the right choice in homes where it matches existing trim, doors, or cabinetry - common in 1970s and 1980s Inland Empire homes.

Cost

• Red oak: $8 - $12 per sq ft installed
• White oak: $10 - $15 per sq ft installed
• Wide-plank white oak: $13 - $18+ per sq ft installed

Get a free estimate with both red and white oak samples on-site.