Pine vs Oak vs Redwood for Furniture: Full Comparison
When choosing the right wood for your custom furniture or live edge slab project, understanding the differences between species is key. At Mountain Dog Millworks, we work with sustainably harvested Pine, Red Oak, and Redwood—each with its own personality, grain, and purpose.
In this guide, we’ll break down the color, grain, hardness, and best uses of Pine, Oak, and Redwood to help you pick the perfect material for your handcrafted piece.
Pine: Soft, Rustic, and Versatile
Color
Pine features a warm creamy white to pale yellow tone, often accented by golden hues and knots that give it a rustic charm.
Grain Pattern
Grain is typically straight with visible knots and growth rings. It’s ideal for those who love a traditional or farmhouse aesthetic.
Hardness (Janka Scale)
Pine is a softer wood at 380 Janka, making it easier to work with for intricate cuts but more prone to dents and wear.
Best Uses
- Rustic dining tables
- Farmhouse benches
- Light cabinetry and shelving
- Kids’ furniture
- Entryway accents
Red Oak: Strong, Classic, and Durable
Color
Red Oak ranges from light tan to pinkish brown, often darkening with age. Its rich warmth gives it a timeless, furniture-grade look.
Grain Pattern
Oak has a pronounced, open grain with distinctive rays and flecks. It finishes beautifully with oil or stain and showcases depth and character.
Hardness (Janka Scale)
Red Oak is a hardwood rated at 1,290 Janka, providing excellent durability and dent resistance.
Best Uses
- Dining tables and kitchen islands
- Desks and office furniture
- Custom cabinetry
- Heirloom-quality furniture
Redwood: Elegant, Lightweight, and Naturally Decay Resistant
Color
Redwood’s natural beauty lies in its deep red to reddish-brown tones with occasional purples and dark streaks. It darkens slightly over time, adding depth and warmth.
Grain Pattern
Tight, straight grain with occasional curly or wavy figures. It’s a softer wood, but its natural oils make it naturally resistant to rot and insects.
Hardness (Janka Scale)
Redwood is softer than oak but slightly harder than pine at 450 Janka.
Best Uses
- Decorative wall pieces and mantels
- Coffee tables
- Outdoor benches (with proper sealing)
- Sculptural or resin-enhanced live edge pieces
See our custom redwood furniture
Wood Species Comparison Table
| Feature | Pine | Red Oak | Redwood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Cream to yellow | Light tan to red-brown | Deep red to reddish-brown |
| Grain | Straight with knots | Open with rays & flecks | Tight, straight, occasional curl |
| Janka Hardness | 380 | 1,290 | 450 |
| Best Uses | Rustic furniture, shelving | Durable tables, cabinetry | Accent pieces, mantels, artistic slabs |
Which Wood Should You Choose?
It depends on your style, function, and budget.
- Choose Pine if you love rustic charm and affordability.
- Choose Oak for strength, formality, and long-lasting investment.
- Choose Redwood for show-stopping color, natural elegance, or sculptural pieces.
At Mountain Dog Millworks, we kiln dry all our slabs and offer custom milling for your exact needs—from thickness and length to edge detailing and finishes. Let us help you bring your next heirloom to life.
Interested in a Custom Quote?
Contact us today to request a sample, schedule a design consult, or explore our live-edge inventory. We ship across the West Coast and beyond
