Most likely silver maple; alternatives include red maple or ash. — Acer saccharinum

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

Acer saccharinum · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially wet lowlands and river margins.
Hardness
750 lbf Janka; Soft.
Durability
Slightly Durable; prone to decay outdoors and offers limited insect resistance without protection.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine-to-medium textured grain with broad cathedral arches indicating flat-sawn stock; no clear special figure.

Color & Appearance

Pale creamy to light tan heartwood and nearly white sapwood, with subtle gray-brown streaking. Moderate natural luster; it generally darkens slightly and yellows with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

750 lbf Janka; Soft.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; prone to decay outdoors and offers limited insect resistance without protection.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $2–$5 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried stock; figured or high-grade material 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 freshly milled or lightly weathered; visible patina is insufficient to estimate tree age or sample age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, millwork, boxes, pallets, veneer, and turning.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially wet lowlands and river margins.

Workability

Generally easy to saw, rout, glue, and finish, though its softness can dent and machining may produce fuzzy surfaces or localized tearout. Pre-drilling is useful for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively to 180–220 grit, then use a conditioner or washcoat to reduce blotching. Oil, shellac, lacquer, or clear polyurethane are suitable.

Notable Features

Lightweight, pale, relatively uniform wood with occasional attractive curl or mineral streaking; growth-ring contrast is modest.

Learn more about Most likely silver maple; alternatives include red maple or ash. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 3, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Silver Maple; Alternatives Include Red Maple Or Ash. in the encyclopedia

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