Silver Maple (Soft Maple)
Acer saccharinum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture; displays some slight waves and subtle cathedral patterns consistent with flat-sawn lumber. Minor mineral streaks and small knots are present.
Color Description
Color is primarily off-white to creamy sapwood with grayish-brown streaks. Heartwood is typically a light to medium reddish brown. It has a low to medium natural luster and tends to turn slightly more amber/golden with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
700 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left unprotected or in contact with the ground.
Common Uses
Boxes, crates, pallets, musical instrument parts (backs/sides), turned objects, interior trim, and affordable furniture.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 1-3 years based on the lack of deep oxidation or heavy patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and considered sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes well, though it can be prone to burn marks from high-speed cutters or dull blades.
Notable Features
Often referred to as Soft Maple along with Red Maple to distinguish it from Hard Maple; lacks a distinct scent; dust can be a mild respiratory irritant.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Film-forming finishes like lacquer or polyurethane are common for protection, but water-based clears help maintain the white color for longer.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the light color, grain structure, and characteristic mineral streaks are highly indicative of Acer saccharinum, distinguishing it from harder Maples or Birches.