Likely hard maple (sugar maple); appearance alone cannot rule out other pale, fine-grained woods. — Acer saccharum (probable)

Likely hard maple (sugar maple); appearance alone cannot rule out other pale, fine-grained woods.

Acer saccharum (probable) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America, especially the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Hardness
1,450 lbf — Hard
Durability
Slightly Durable; untreated wood has limited resistance to decay and insect attack, especially outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Very subtle, mostly straight and fine grain; the image shows no distinctive figure or clear evidence of sawing orientation.

Color & Appearance

Pale gray-white, possibly affected by lighting or finish; heartwood and sapwood are not distinguishable. Maple typically yellows or ambers with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1,450 lbf — Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; untreated wood has limited resistance to decay and insect attack, especially outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$5–12 per board foot for common kiln-dried lumber; grade and region affect price.

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 estimated from this image; no reliable patina, wear, or cut-mark indicators are visible.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinets, flooring, interior trim, turned objects, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America, especially the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.

Workability

Machines and sands well, though hard maple can burn during machining and may tear out when figured. Pre-drilling is useful for screws; glue and finish are generally straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply clear lacquer, polyurethane, or oil; use a conditioner or careful sealing before stain to reduce blotching.

Notable Features

Fine, even texture and pale color; hard maple can show curly or bird’s-eye figure, neither apparent here.

Learn more about Likely hard maple (sugar maple); appearance alone cannot rule out other pale, fine-grained woods. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 23, 2026