Likely Hard Maple (Sugar Maple), with Red Maple as an alternative — Acer saccharum; alternative Acer rubrum

Likely Hard Maple (Sugar Maple), with Red Maple as an alternative

Acer saccharum; alternative Acer rubrum · 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; generally poor natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering when exposed outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine and uniform grain; appears flat-sawn with subtle cathedral figure and no pronounced special figure.

Color & Appearance

Pale creamy-white to light tan, with slightly darker heartwood and limited contrast; moderate natural luster. It typically yellows mildly with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

1,450 lbf Janka — Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; generally poor natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering when exposed outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $5–$10 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried retail stock; highly regional and grade-dependent.

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 determined visually; the clean machining and pale surface suggest recently milled or lightly used stock, not age-related patina.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher-block-style surfaces, interior trim, turning, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

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

Workability

Machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though its hardness can dull tools and figured areas may tear out. Predrilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Use a clear lacquer, shellac, waterborne finish, or polyurethane; sanding sealer helps produce an even result. Oil can slightly warm the pale color.

Notable Features

Fine texture, good strength, relatively heavy weight, and a clean, understated appearance; the image shows no diagnostic end grain.

Learn more about Likely Hard Maple (Sugar Maple), with Red Maple as an alternative in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 7, 2026