Most likely hard maple (possibly soft maple); exact species cannot be confirmed from the face alone.
Acer saccharum (alternative: Acer rubrum or Acer saccharinum) · Hardwood; temperate North American species.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate North American species.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Appalachian regions.
- Hardness
- Sugar maple: approximately 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft-maple alternatives generally measure about 950–1,000 lbf—Medium.
- Durability
- Slightly durable; generally poor resistance to prolonged moisture, decay, and insects when exposed outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight, fine, and close-grained with subtle irregular cathedral-like patches; appears flat-sawn or plain-sawn, with no clear figured pattern.
Color & Appearance
Pale creamy white to light tan with subdued luster and slight gray-brown oxidation; heartwood is only modestly darker than sapwood and typically warms with age.
Hardness (Janka)
Sugar maple: approximately 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft-maple alternatives generally measure about 950–1,000 lbf—Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; generally poor resistance to prolonged moisture, decay, and insects when exposed outdoors.
Value & Age
About $4–$9 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
- Indeterminate; the clean surface and limited patina suggest a relatively recent finish or fabrication, not reliably an antique sample.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher-block surfaces, interior trim, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Appalachian regions.
Workability
Machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though hard maple can burn, dull cutters, and show machining marks; predrilling is advisable.
Finish Recommendations
Apply a washcoat or sanding sealer to reduce blotching, then use clear lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane; sanding to 180–220 grit is appropriate.
Notable Features
Fine texture, restrained grain, good wear resistance, and occasional figured forms such as curly or bird’s-eye maple.
