Maple (most likely Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed, diffuse-porous grain with a fine, even texture. The pattern is mostly straight but exhibits subtle cathedral peaks on the flat-sawn panel faces, characteristic of North American maple.
Color Description
Natural heartwood is light to medium reddish-brown, while sapwood is creamy white; however, this specimen has been treated with a dark espresso or mocha stain. It shows a medium luster under a semi-gloss topcoat.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if left unfinished or exposed to high moisture.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior doors, flooring, musical instruments (piano frames, guitar necks), and cutting boards.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for select grade lumber
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be 10-25 years old based on the contemporary door construction style and the state of the topcoat oxidation/wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available with FSC certification options.
Workability
Excellent for machining and turning. It is known to be difficult to stain evenly (prone to blotching), which is why the sample shows a heavy, dark pigment application to ensure uniform color.
Notable Features
High density and resistance to abrasion; virtually odorless; dust can be a respiratory irritant for some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain conditioner is recommended before dark staining. The current sample is finished with a pigment-based stain and a polyurethane or lacquer topcoat.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The closed-grain structure and typical furniture-grade door construction strongly suggest Maple or possibly Yellow Birch; however, the heavy dark stain obscures the natural color and fine grain details.