Likely maple, possibly hard (sugar) maple; birch is a plausible alternative. The small, pale sample does not show enough detail for a definitive species identification.
Acer saccharum (if hard maple); possible alternative: Betula spp. · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Hard maple is native to eastern North America, especially the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- Hard maple: about 1,450 lbf (Hard); birch alternatives vary by species.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; maple is not naturally rot- or weather-resistant and is vulnerable to insects in damp conditions.
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Grain Pattern
Fine, mostly straight grain on the narrow face; no distinctive figure is visible. End grain detail is insufficient to assess pores or growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light tan, with little visible heartwood/sapwood contrast; surface appears matte. Maple typically ambers somewhat with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
Hard maple: about 1,450 lbf (Hard); birch alternatives vary by species.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; maple is not naturally rot- or weather-resistant and is vulnerable to insects in damp conditions.
Value & Age
Hard maple lumber commonly retails around US$5–12 per board foot, varying with grade, thickness, and region.
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 estimated from this clean, small cross-section; no reliable patina or wear indicators are visible.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher blocks, turning, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Hard maple is native to eastern North America, especially the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Machines and sands cleanly, though hard maple can burn under dull tooling and may show tearout; predrilling helps with fasteners. It glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and use clear lacquer, polyurethane, or oil; test stains first, as maple can take color unevenly.
Notable Features
Typically fine-textured, dense, and capable of subtle curl or bird’s-eye figure, neither visible here.