Most likely soft maple (possibly hard maple); alternatives include birch or beech. — Acer spp., most likely Acer rubrum or Acer saccharum

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

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

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.

Learn more about Most likely soft maple (possibly hard maple); alternatives include birch or beech. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 7, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Soft Maple (Possibly Hard Maple); Alternatives Include Birch Or Beech. in the encyclopedia

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