Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternative: soft maple or birch. — Acer saccharum (likely); alternatives Acer rubrum or Betula spp.

Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternative: soft maple or birch.

Acer saccharum (likely); alternatives Acer rubrum or Betula spp. · Hardwood (deciduous).

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (deciduous).
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 susceptible to decay and insects when persistently exposed outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine and uniform grain with subtle diffuse figure; appears flat-sawn or rift-sawn. No strong curl, bird’s-eye, or cathedral figure is visible.

Color & Appearance

Pale cream to light tan with minimal heartwood/sapwood contrast, subdued luster, and occasional small brown mineral streaks. It typically yellows slightly with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1,450 lbf Janka; Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable; generally susceptible to decay and insects when persistently exposed outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $5–$10 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried hard maple; figured or premium stock costs 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 clean, uniformly pale surface shows little oxidation or wear; likely newly milled or recently machined, with age indeterminate.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher-block surfaces, interior trim, turning, and tool components.

Geographic Origin

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

Workability

Machines and sands well, though its hardness can dull tools and tearout may occur with reversing grain. Glues, nails, and screws reliably with appropriate pilot holes.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply a washcoat or conditioner to reduce blotching, then use clear lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane. Clear finishes preserve its pale color.

Notable Features

Fine texture, relatively high density, and a clean, neutral appearance; occasional mineral streaking is characteristic of maple.

Learn more about Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternative: soft maple or birch. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 21, 2026