Likely spalted maple, possibly spalted sycamore or beech
Acer spp. (most likely Acer saccharum or Acer rubrum) · Hardwood; domestic North American
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; domestic North American
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America; maple commonly grows from the Great Lakes and New England through the Appalachians and Midwest.
- Hardness
- Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard; red maple: about 950 lbf, Medium.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; maple is generally susceptible to decay, while spalting does not improve outdoor durability.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to mildly wavy grain with extensive spalting, dark zone lines, irregular mineral-like streaks, and a live edge; likely flat-sawn slab.
Color & Appearance
Very pale cream to light tan sapwood with gray-brown and faint reddish streaking. Spalting provides strong contrast; unfinished wood will amber slightly with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard; red maple: about 950 lbf, Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; maple is generally susceptible to decay, while spalting does not improve outdoor durability.
Value & Age
Approximately $10–35 per board foot for attractive, dry spalted slabs; exceptional wide or figured pieces may cost 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 slab’s age cannot be determined visually; dark spalting indicates fungal activity before milling, not necessarily old wood.
Common Uses
Furniture, live-edge slabs, tabletops, cabinetry, turning, decorative veneer, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America; maple commonly grows from the Great Lakes and New England through the Appalachians and Midwest.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though cracks, soft spalted zones, and tearout require sharp tools and light passes. Stabilizing weak areas may be necessary before machining or joinery.
Finish Recommendations
Seal soft areas with thin penetrating epoxy or sanding sealer, then apply lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane; test first because spalting absorbs finish unevenly.
Notable Features
Distinctive zone lines and contrasting spalting; variable density and occasional soft pockets are characteristic.