Red Maple (or potentially Silver Maple) — Acer rubrum

Red Maple (or potentially Silver Maple)

Acer rubrum · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America
Hardness
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability
Slightly durable; poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack if left unprotected outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Straight grain with a relatively fine, uniform texture.

Color & Appearance

Light reddish-brown with greyish weathering on the outer surface exposing underlying pinkish-tan tones. Low natural luster on the weathered face.

Hardness (Janka)

950 lbf (Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable; poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack if left unprotected outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Moderate, roughly $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot for standard lumber grades.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent harvest with surface weathering indicating several months of exposure.

Common Uses

Utility wood, pallets, crates, inferior furniture, turning, and paper pulp.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily when routed or shaped if feed rates are too slow.

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains, dyes, and clears uniformly, though blotchiness can occur without a pre-conditioner.

Notable Features

Features paper-thin flaking bark and transitional inner wood layers typical of younger maple stems.

Learn more about Red Maple (or potentially Silver Maple) in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 1, 2026