Most likely soft maple, probably silver maple; alternatives include red maple or sycamore.
Acer saccharinum (likely); Acer rubrum or Platanus occidentalis possible. · Hardwood (deciduous), domestic North American.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood (deciduous), domestic North American.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Midwest, and southeastern regions.
- Hardness
- Silver maple: about 750 lbf Janka—Soft; red maple: about 950 lbf—Medium.
- Durability
- Slightly durable to non-durable outdoors; limited decay and insect resistance, so generally intended for interior use.
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight to mildly wavy, with diffuse porous end grain and subtle cathedral-like growth contours; no convincing figured pattern visible.
Color & Appearance
Pale grayish-white to tan with indistinct heartwood and sapwood, subdued luster, and slight oxidation darkening. The dark oval appears to be a knot or mineral/stain mark, not species-defining.
Hardness (Janka)
Silver maple: about 750 lbf Janka—Soft; red maple: about 950 lbf—Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable to non-durable outdoors; limited decay and insect resistance, so generally intended for interior use.
Value & Age
Approximately $2–$5 per board foot for ordinary soft maple; figured or premium stock may be higher.
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, lightly weathered sample; apparent grayness may reflect oxidation or storage rather than age.
Common Uses
Furniture, drawers, cabinetry parts, pallets, boxes, turning, carving, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Midwest, and southeastern regions.
Workability
Generally easy to machine, glue, and finish, though soft maple can fuzz, dent, or show tearout around knots; sharp cutters and light sanding help.
Finish Recommendations
Use sanding sealer or conditioner before stain to reduce blotching; clear lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane are suitable.
Notable Features
Lightweight, fine-textured, relatively plain appearance; species separation requires clear end-grain inspection or microscopy.
