Soft Maple (Red Maple)
Acer rubrum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight-grained with a fine, even texture. The sample shows flat-sawn cathedral patterns in the center and some minor pith flecks/mineral streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish brown; sapwood is a pale off-white to yellowish-white. This sample shows a clear distinction between the white sapwood edges and the darker heartwood center.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, boxes/crates, pallets, musical instruments, turned objects, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.50 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/Recent (likely less than 1-2 years since processing based on lack of oxidation and bright color).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Good workability with both machine and hand tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well. Can occasionally exhibit burning when using high-speed routers or saws.
Notable Features
Lacks a characteristic odor; lighter and slightly softer than Hard Maple (Acer saccharum); often features 'pith flecks' which are small brown streaks caused by larvae.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well, including clear polyurethane, lacquer, and oils. Can be prone to blotching when stained, so a pre-stain conditioner is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High; the specific contrast between the white sapwood and light tan heartwood, combined with the fine grain and characteristic pith flecks, is diagnostic for Soft Maple.