Red vs. White Oak

Q: What is the characteristic difference in red oak and white oak 3/4 tongue and groove hardwood flooring?

A: White oak is harder than red oak. The color of the woods is also different. If you happen to choose quarter sawn white oak, it is much more resistant to side gaping than red oak though it can sometimes have tannin issues, especially when using some water borne polyurethanes. It can discolor if a special sealer is not used first.