PROS: This golden yellow to brown colored wood is one of my favorites. In a rift or quarter sawn grade it shows off its medullar rays like no other wood. It is harder than red oak and is more moisture stable. This wood takes all stains evenly but why hide its lovely color. In select grade priced the same as red oak.

CONS: Some people object to its yellowish tones and it more varied coloring. Can be difficult to sand due to its hardness. It is fairly expensive in the quarter-sawn grade.