
Most likely soft maple (possibly hard maple); alternatives include birch or beech.
Acer spp., most likely Acer rubrum or Acer saccharum · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America; maple is widely grown and milled across the United States and Canada.
- Hardness
- Soft maple: approximately 950 lbf, Medium; hard maple: approximately 1,450 lbf, Hard.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited resistance to decay, insects, and weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Very fine, predominantly straight grain with diffuse-porous end grain; no visible decorative figure. The shown face appears flat-sawn or plain-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light tan sapwood with subtle pink-brown cast and low luster; maple typically darkens slightly toward warm golden tan with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
Soft maple: approximately 950 lbf, Medium; hard maple: approximately 1,450 lbf, Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited resistance to decay, insects, and weathering.
Value & Age
Approximately $3–$8 per board foot for ordinary surfaced maple; figured or premium hard maple can cost substantially more.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be reliably estimated from this clean, freshly cut-looking sample; visible end grain shows little oxidation or wear.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, drawers, trim, flooring, turning, toys, and general shop projects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America; maple is widely grown and milled across the United States and Canada.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though hard maple can burn, split, or dull tools; predrilling is advisable, and gluing is generally reliable.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts oil, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane; sand evenly and use a conditioner or washcoat if an even stain color is desired.
Notable Features
Fine, uniform texture, relatively low pore visibility, and often excellent dimensional stability; no distinctive scent or figure is visible.