Likely soft maple (possibly red maple); alternatives include birch or alder. — Acer spp., most likely Acer rubrum

Likely soft maple (possibly red maple); alternatives include birch or alder.

Acer spp., most likely Acer rubrum · Hardwood (temperate deciduous)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (temperate deciduous)
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Hardness
950 lbf Janka (red maple), Medium; hard maple would be about 1,450 lbf.
Durability
Slightly Durable; limited natural resistance to rot, insects, and weathering.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine and uniform with subtle cathedral pattern and occasional wavy areas; appears flat-sawn. No distinctive figure visible.

Color & Appearance

Pale creamy to light pinkish-brown heartwood with nearly indistinguishable sapwood; mild natural luster and some darker streaks or knots. It generally yellows slightly with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

950 lbf Janka (red maple), Medium; hard maple would be about 1,450 lbf.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; limited natural resistance to rot, insects, and weathering.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $3–$6 per board foot for clear, ordinary kiln-dried stock; figured or premium maple costs 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
The surface appears relatively recent or lightly weathered; visible wear is insufficient for a reliable age estimate, likely under several decades.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, boxes, turning, flooring, and general joinery.

Geographic Origin

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

Workability

Machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though tearout can occur around knots or reversing grain; predrilling is useful for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Use sanding sealer or conditioner before stain to reduce blotching; clear lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane all work well.

Notable Features

Fine texture, moderate density, clean pale appearance, and occasional mineral streaking or knots.

Learn more about Likely soft maple (possibly red maple); alternatives include birch or alder. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 7, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Likely Soft Maple (Possibly Red Maple); Alternatives Include Birch Or Alder. in the encyclopedia

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