Likely maple (possibly hard maple); birch is a plausible alternative. — Acer saccharum (if hard maple); exact species cannot be confirmed from this image.

Likely maple (possibly hard maple); birch is a plausible alternative.

Acer saccharum (if hard maple); exact species cannot be confirmed from this image. · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Maples grow broadly across eastern North America; hard maple is especially associated with the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Hardness
Hard maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard. Soft maple is typically about 700–950 lbf, ranging from Soft to Medium.
Durability
Slightly Durable; maple is generally susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to damp conditions.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine grain with broad, irregular pale and tan bands; the image does not show enough detail to establish cut orientation or special figure.

Color & Appearance

Creamy white to light tan with subtle grayish areas and modest color variation. No clear heartwood–sapwood boundary or pronounced luster is visible; aging cannot be inferred reliably.

Hardness (Janka)

Hard maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard. Soft maple is typically about 700–950 lbf, ranging from Soft to Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; maple is generally susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to damp conditions.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $5–$12 per board foot for common kiln-dried maple; grade, dimensions, and location affect price.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Not estimable from this image; visible color alone does not reliably indicate age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, turning, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Maples grow broadly across eastern North America; hard maple is especially associated with the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.

Workability

Machines and sands well, though hard maple can burn during machining and may show tearout with figured grain. Pre-drilling is useful for screws.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply a clear finish such as lacquer or polyurethane; use a conditioner or tested dye schedule if an even stain is desired.

Notable Features

Fine, even texture and pale color; some maple has striking figured grain, but none is clearly identifiable here.

Learn more about Likely maple (possibly hard maple); birch is a plausible alternative. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 24, 2026