Spalted maple, most likely soft maple (possible hard maple)
Acer rubrum or Acer saccharum · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America; red maple is widespread, while sugar maple is concentrated in the northeastern United States and Canada.
- Hardness
- 950–1450 lbf: Medium (soft maple) to Hard (sugar maple).
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited resistance to rot, insects, and weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, with prominent spalting zone lines, mineral streaking, and mild wavy figure; flat-sawn appearance.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to tan sapwood with gray-blue/black spalting lines and occasional pink-brown mineral streaks. Typically darkens slightly amber with light and finish.
Hardness (Janka)
950–1450 lbf: Medium (soft maple) to Hard (sugar maple).
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited resistance to rot, insects, and weathering.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$25 per board foot for attractive spalted maple, depending on figure, thickness, dryness, and defects.
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 board appears recently milled and workshop-used; visible holes and oxidation suggest months to several years, not reliably datable from appearance.
Common Uses
Decorative furniture, cabinetry, boxes, turned objects, veneer, cutting boards, and instrument components.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America; red maple is widespread, while sugar maple is concentrated in the northeastern United States and Canada.
Workability
Generally machines and sands well, though spalting creates variable hardness and may cause tear-out or edge chipping. Pre-drilling is advisable; glue and finishes reliably after thorough drying.
Finish Recommendations
Use sanding sealer followed by lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane; clear finishes best emphasize the contrast. Stabilizing soft or punky areas with thin resin may be necessary.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark zone lines and gray mineral streaks indicate fungal spalting; insect holes are also visible. Spalted areas may be lighter and more brittle than surrounding wood.
