Most likely low-grade soft maple, possibly silver maple; alternatives include basswood or poplar. — Acer saccharinum (probable); Tilia americana or Populus spp. are alternatives.

Most likely low-grade soft maple, possibly silver maple; alternatives include basswood or poplar.

Acer saccharinum (probable); Tilia americana or Populus spp. are alternatives. · Hardwood (deciduous), likely domestic North American.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (deciduous), likely domestic North American.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Mississippi Valley, and eastern United States.
Hardness
Silver maple: about 750 lbf, Soft by the requested scale; basswood is about 410 lbf (Very Soft), while poplar is about 430 lbf.
Durability
Slightly Durable to Non-durable; generally vulnerable to decay and insects when exposed outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine and diffuse-textured grain; appears flat-sawn with faint cathedral pattern and minor irregularity. End grain is not clearly visible.

Color & Appearance

Pale grayish cream to light tan with little heartwood/sapwood contrast and a matte, weathered surface; maple typically mellows slightly warmer with age.

Hardness (Janka)

Silver maple: about 750 lbf, Soft by the requested scale; basswood is about 410 lbf (Very Soft), while poplar is about 430 lbf.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable to Non-durable; generally vulnerable to decay and insects when exposed outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$1–3 per board foot for rough, low-grade material; species and grade uncertainty substantially affect value.

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 image; it appears recently cut or lightly weathered, with no convincing patina or wear evidence.

Common Uses

Crates, pallets, utility furniture, interior trim, boxes, turning, and painted components.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Mississippi Valley, and eastern United States.

Workability

Generally easy to saw, drill, sand, glue, and finish; softer material may dent, fuzz, or tear out around knots and dull edges.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively and use a sanding sealer or conditioner before stain to reduce blotching; paint, lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane are suitable.

Notable Features

Plain appearance, low contrast, and visible small knots or defects; the image lacks diagnostic end-grain detail.

Learn more about Most likely low-grade soft maple, possibly silver maple; alternatives include basswood or poplar. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 6, 2026