Hard Maple and Black Walnut (Laminated)
Acer saccharum and Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, closed grain in the Maple with subtle cathedral arching; straight to slightly irregular grain in the Walnut strips showing a flat-sawn profile.
Color Description
Maple strips range from creamy white to light reddish-tan; Walnut strips are deep chocolate brown with dark steaks. Both will darken/amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
Maple: 1,450 lbf (Hard); Walnut: 1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Walnut is rated as Durable; Maple is rated Non-durable/Perishable regarding rot resistance (though highly durable for wear/impact).
Common Uses
Cutting boards, butcher blocks, flooring, furniture, and cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6 - $12 per board foot depending on local pricing and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Recently manufactured (less than 5 years) based on lack of deep knife scarring and minimal oxidation of the Maple.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Workability
Both work well with tools, though Maple can burn with high-speed bits and Walnut can produce a fine dust that is an irritant.
Notable Features
Walnut has a faint, characteristic scent when worked. Maple is prized for its food-safe, high-density surface which resists bacterial growth.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil and beeswax (Butcher Block conditioner) to maintain hydration and food safety.
Identification Confidence
High; the contrast between the tight-grained light Maple and the chocolatey porous Walnut is a classic combination in North American woodworking.