Oak is characterized by its orange reddish hue with the sapwood being white to light brown. The wood has a pronounced opened grain and is very durable with good wear-resistance. The stain absorbs into this open grain pattern becoming darker where the grain is close and lighter where the grain is more open. Over time, the oak will oxidize to a golden honey color and the reddish cast will somewhat diminish. As with most woods, exposure to sunlight will accelerate the speed and intensify the degree of oxidation.