Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternatives include soft maple or beech. — Acer saccharum (likely); Acer rubrum/Acer platanoides are possible alternatives.

Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternatives include soft maple or beech.

Acer saccharum (likely); Acer rubrum/Acer platanoides are possible alternatives. · Hardwood; temperate deciduous.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; temperate deciduous.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States and Canada.
Hardness
1,450 lbf Janka; Hard.
Durability
Slightly durable; generally vulnerable to decay and insect attack when exposed outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine, and tightly textured with subtle diffuse-porous growth lines; no visible figured grain. The image appears to show flat-sawn or plain-sawn stock.

Color & Appearance

Pale cream to light gray-tan with minimal heartwood contrast; subdued luster and little visible color variation. It commonly yellows slightly with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

1,450 lbf Janka; Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable; generally vulnerable to decay and insect attack when exposed outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $5–12 per board foot for clear kiln-dried hard maple; figured or premium grades cost 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
Not determinable from this cropped image; the surface appears unfinished or lightly weathered, with no reliable patina indicators.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, butcher-block surfaces, turned objects, musical instruments, and tool handles.

Geographic Origin

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

Workability

Machines and sands well, though its hardness can dull tools and tearout may occur around irregular grain. It glues and finishes reliably; predrilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Use sanding sealer followed by oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; dye or stain may absorb unevenly, so conditioner or a washcoat helps.

Notable Features

Fine, uniform texture, good wear resistance, and a clean pale appearance; figured forms may show bird’s-eye or curly patterns, not visible here.

Learn more about Most likely hard maple (sugar maple); alternatives include soft maple or beech. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 5, 2026