Soft Maple (likely Silver or Red Maple)
Acer saccharinum / Acer rubrum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with occasional waves; visible cathedral pattern in the heartwood transition and some fuzzy/torn grain on the rough-sawn surface. Flat-sawn orientation.
Color Description
Sapwood is a pale creamy white to grayish-white; heartwood exhibits light reddish-gray streaks and brownish pith flecks. It will typically turn a more golden or yellowish-tan hue with light exposure and age.
Hardness Rating
700 lbf to 950 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if used in outdoor or high-moisture environments.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, crate making, interior trim, novelties, musical instrument backs, and drawer sides.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on local availability and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh/recent rough-sawn stock (months to a few years old); showing minimal oxidation or UV-induced darkening, often referred to as 'green' or air-dried lumber.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable; often available as FSC-certified.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the lower density makes it prone to fuzzy grain if blades are not sharp. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often contains 'pith flecks' (dark streaks caused by larvae); neutral or faint scent; lack of distinctive taste; much lighter and softer than Hard Maple (Acer saccharum).
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Pre-conditioners are recommended when staining to avoid blotchiness. Top coats of polyurethane or lacquer are ideal for protecting the softer surface.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the pale color, characteristic 'pith fleck' streaks, and the fuzzy texture of the rough-cut surface are highly indicative of Soft Maple varieties.