Likely hard maple (possibly soft maple); alternatives include birch or beech.
Acer saccharum (hard maple), possibly Acer rubrum/Acer macrophyllum. · Hardwood (temperate deciduous).
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood (temperate deciduous).
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America; hard maple is especially associated with the Great Lakes and Appalachian regions.
- Hardness
- Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft maple is approximately 950 lbf—Medium.
- Durability
- Slightly durable; generally poor outdoor decay resistance and vulnerable to insects when persistently exposed.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, fine and diffuse-textured, with subtle wavy streaks; appears flat-sawn or plain-sawn. No clear figured grain is visible.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light tan heartwood and sapwood with minimal contrast; naturally low luster, typically yellowing slightly with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft maple is approximately 950 lbf—Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; generally poor outdoor decay resistance and vulnerable to insects when persistently exposed.
Value & Age
Approximately $4–$9 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried maple; local pricing and grade vary substantially.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be reliably estimated from this clean, unfinished sample; it appears freshly milled or lightly aged.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, workbenches, butcher blocks, veneer, turnings, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America; hard maple is especially associated with the Great Lakes and Appalachian regions.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though hard maple can burn or dull blades; predrilling is advisable, and gluing is generally good.
Finish Recommendations
Sand progressively to 180–220 grit; use a washcoat or conditioner to reduce blotching, then apply lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane.
Notable Features
Fine, uniform texture, good wear resistance, and occasional curly or bird’s-eye figure, not evident here.
