Likely hard maple (possibly soft maple); the pale stock and subtle figure are consistent with maple. — Acer saccharum (hard/sugar maple); alternative Acer rubrum or another soft maple.

Likely hard maple (possibly soft maple); the pale stock and subtle figure are consistent with maple.

Acer saccharum (hard/sugar maple); alternative Acer rubrum or another soft maple. · Hardwood (deciduous).

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (deciduous).
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Appalachians.
Hardness
Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft maple alternatives: roughly 950–1,000 lbf—Medium.
Durability
Slightly Durable; limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering, so it is primarily an interior wood.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine and uniform grain with faint wavy/curly figure and occasional mineral streaking; appears flat- or rift-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Nearly white to creamy tan heartwood and sapwood with low contrast; maple typically yellows slightly and develops warmer amber tones with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft maple alternatives: roughly 950–1,000 lbf—Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering, so it is primarily an interior wood.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $4–$10 per board foot for clear kiln-dried maple; figured or premium stock may cost substantially 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
Appears freshly milled or lightly aged; no reliable patina or wear indicators are visible. The tree’s age cannot be determined from this board.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher-block surfaces, millwork, turning, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Appalachians.

Workability

Machines and sands cleanly, though hard maple can dull tools and burn; curly areas may tear out during planing. Glues, nails, and screws well with proper pilot holes.

Finish Recommendations

Sand carefully and apply a clear waterborne finish, lacquer, polyurethane, or hardwax oil; use conditioner or a controlled sealer if staining to reduce blotching.

Notable Features

Fine texture, bright appearance, good wear resistance, and possible subtle curly figure; the image does not show diagnostic end grain.

Learn more about Likely hard maple (possibly soft maple); the pale stock and subtle figure are consistent with maple. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 9, 2026