Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternative: silver maple or another pale maple — Acer saccharum (probable)

Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternative: silver maple or another pale maple

Acer saccharum (probable) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and northeastern United States and Canada.
Hardness
1,450 lbf Janka — Hard
Durability
Slightly durable; limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine and diffuse-textured grain; the bright crosswise shimmer suggests mild curly or quilted figure, though the rough surface obscures it.

Color & Appearance

Nearly white to creamy heartwood and sapwood with subtle tan variation and satin luster; maple typically yellows slightly with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

1,450 lbf Janka — Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

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

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $5–$12 per board foot for clear hard maple; figured stock may command substantially 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
Cannot be reliably estimated from this unfinished sample; it appears recently milled or lightly weathered.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher blocks, turnings, musical instruments, and tool handles.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and northeastern United States and Canada.

Workability

Machines and sands well, but its hardness can dull tools; figured areas may tear out during planing. Glues and finishes reliably.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively, seal evenly to reduce blotching, then use lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane; clear finishes preserve its light color.

Notable Features

Dense, pale wood with excellent wear resistance and possible subtle chatoyance/curly figure.

Learn more about Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternative: silver maple or another pale maple in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 12, 2026