Most likely a diffuse-porous hardwood such as maple; alternatives include birch or beech.
Acer spp., tentatively Acer saccharum (sugar maple) · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Sugar maple is native to eastern North America; birch and beech alternatives occupy similar northern temperate regions.
- Hardness
- Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Birch and beech alternatives are approximately 1,260–1,300 lbf.
- Durability
- Slightly durable; generally vulnerable to prolonged moisture, decay, and insects when exposed outdoors.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight, fine-textured grain; the visible face appears roughly quartersawn or tangentially cut, with no clear decorative figure.
Color & Appearance
Pale tan to light brown with subdued luster and little apparent sapwood/heartwood contrast; likely to yellow slightly with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Birch and beech alternatives are approximately 1,260–1,300 lbf.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; generally vulnerable to prolonged moisture, decay, and insects when exposed outdoors.
Value & Age
Approximately $5–12 per board foot for clear maple, varying substantially by region, thickness, and grade.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Not determinable from this image; surface abrasion and darkening suggest handling or storage wear, not necessarily old wood.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, turned objects, butcher-block-style products, musical components, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Sugar maple is native to eastern North America; birch and beech alternatives occupy similar northern temperate regions.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though interlocked areas may tear out and its hardness can dull tools; gluing and fastening are generally straightforward.
Finish Recommendations
Sand progressively to 180–220 grit, then use dye or stain conditioner if coloring; clear lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane are suitable.
Notable Features
Fine, uniform texture and relatively high density; no distinctive scent or figure is visible.
