How to Use Black Oak for Lumber

Black oak lumber can be hard to identify for several reasons. Although it is known as black oak, often times it is mistakenly called yellow oak. To add to the confusion, it usually is sold alongside red oak. The name yellow oak has some justification because the wood has a bright yellow hue when the bark is stripped. In fact, in the past it was used for yellow dye. Although not as water-resistant as white oak, and not as strong as red oak, black oak has many uses.

Instructions

- 1
  Lay an oak floor. Black oak is almost indistinguishable from red oak when it is dried, sanded and processed into flooring. Although the wood is slightly less durable, for this application it is ideal. Staining, sealing and installation are identical.
- 2
  Load a pallet and lift it with a forklift. Black oak is routinely used to make pallets. Oak deserves the tough reputation it has. In the war of 1812, the "USS Constitution", the world's oldest warship afloat, earned the nickname "Old Ironsides". With a 25-inch thick oak hull, 18 lb. iron balls fired from British cannons bounced off the ship's hull.
- 3
  Build with black oak. Black oak stands up to farm and ranch needs for fence posts. When treated, it is used for railroad cross-ties. In the home, it is used for furniture and paneling.

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