Likely hard maple (sugar maple); silver maple is a possible alternative. — Acer saccharum (likely); possibly Acer saccharinum.

Likely hard maple (sugar maple); silver maple is a possible alternative.

Acer saccharum (likely); possibly Acer saccharinum. · Hardwood (temperate).

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (temperate).
Origin
Sugar maple is native to eastern North America, especially the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Hardness
1,450 lbf; Hard (sugar maple).
Durability
Slightly Durable; not naturally resistant to decay or insect attack, especially outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Fine, mostly straight and subtly irregular grain; the visible face appears plain-sawn, with no distinctive figure apparent. End grain is not visible.

Color & Appearance

Pale cream to light tan with little visible heartwood–sapwood contrast; subdued luster. Maple can amber or yellow slightly with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1,450 lbf; Hard (sugar maple).

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; not naturally resistant to decay or insect attack, especially outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$5–12 per board foot for common kiln-dried stock; grade and region 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 reliably estimable from this clean, apparently planed face; no clear patina or wear indicators.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinets, flooring, butcher blocks, turnings, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Sugar maple is native to eastern North America, especially the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.

Workability

Machines and finishes smoothly, though hard maple can burn under dull blades and may show blotchy stain; preconditioning helps.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and use clear oil, lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane; test stains first to avoid blotching.

Notable Features

Fine, even texture and good wear resistance; figured forms can show bird’s-eye or curl, neither evident here.

Learn more about Likely hard maple (sugar maple); silver maple is a possible alternative. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 24, 2026