Most likely silver maple; alternatives include red maple or soft maple. — Acer saccharinum (likely)

Most likely silver maple; alternatives include red maple or soft maple.

Acer saccharinum (likely) · Hardwood (temperate deciduous)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (temperate deciduous)
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Mississippi drainage.
Hardness
Janka approximately 750 lbf—Soft.
Durability
Slightly Durable; limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering.

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Grain Pattern

Flat-sawn, mostly diffuse straight grain with broad cathedral-like growth arcs, wavy distortion, and a prominent knot/burl-like area.

Color & Appearance

Very pale cream to light gray-white heartwood and sapwood with subtle pink-brown streaks; moderate luster and little expected color change beyond gentle yellowing.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka approximately 750 lbf—Soft.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About US$3–7 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried material; figured or unusually wide stock 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 board appears recently milled or lightly finished; visible knot checking is natural rather than evidence of age. Sample age cannot be reliably determined visually.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinet parts, millwork, boxes, interior trim, veneer, and turned objects.

Geographic Origin

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

Workability

Generally easy to saw, plane, sand, glue, and finish, though soft areas and irregular grain near the knot can tear out or dent.

Finish Recommendations

Use a sanding sealer or washcoat to reduce uneven absorption, then apply oil, lacquer, shellac, or water/oil-based polyurethane.

Notable Features

Light weight, fine texture, relatively plain appearance, and attractive swirling grain around the knot; maple has little characteristic scent.

Learn more about Most likely silver maple; alternatives include red maple or soft maple. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 18, 2026