European oak, sometimes called green oak,  is native to Europe and western Asia. It is commonly found in countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom. It is also found in some parts of western Asia, such as in Turkey and the Caucasus region. European oak is a hardwood species, which means that it has a high density and strength compared to other types of wood. Oak is considered to be one of the most durable and long-lasting woods available, and it is often used in construction and furniture making for these reasons.

The colour of the wood can vary depending on the specific tree and growing conditions, but it generally ranges from a pale yellowish-brown to a reddish-brown. The colour of the wood may also darken over time as it is exposed to light and air.  When compared with American white oak, European oak has a warm, honey-like medium-brown colour and a more characterful grain pattern; American white oak tends to be lighter in colour with a more subtle grain.

The heartwood (at the ‘heart’, or centre of the tree) of European Oak is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect damage. It also has a high resistance to fire and is a great option for flooring and cabinetry. The durability of oak is also due to its tight grains which makes it harder to split or warp.

When properly cared for, European oak furniture, flooring and other oak products can last for decades or even centuries. It is a great option for those looking for a durable and long-lasting wood product.

Depending on what you need, Premier Forest Products can create bespoke profiles and mouldings to your specific requirements at our specialist machining facilities; or for something extra special, at our in-house joinery workshop.  Take a look at the gallery above to get a flavour of what we can do for you, for example customised furniture, doors, door/porch canopies, oak roof trusses, stairs, stair components and more!

European Oak at a glance:

• Botanical name: Quercus robur
• Common names: Common Oak, English Oak, Green Oak
• Colour: Pale yellowish-brown to a reddish-brown
• Grain: Straight to wavy, sometimes curly
• Texture: Medium to Coarse
• Hardness: Janka hardness rating of 1,360 lbf (6,000 N), hard
• Durability: Highly durable
• Density: 650-760 kg/m³
• Working Properties: Euorpean Oak is a dense wood that can be difficult to work with hand tools, but it machines well and takes finishes well
• Stability: Good

*The Janka hardness test measures the resistance of a sample of wood to denting and wear.

Swatch image supplied courtesy of The Wood Database.