Hard Maple (Sugar Maple) / Birch (Plywood face panel)
Acer saccharum (or Betula alleghaniensis) · Engineered (Hardwood Plywood / Veneer)
- Type
- Engineered (Hardwood Plywood / Veneer)
- Origin
- Northeastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard) for face species; core strength varies depending on plywood construction
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Poor resistance to rot, moisture, and exterior decay; susceptible to insect attack if exposed to damp conditions.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn (plain-sliced) face veneer showing a subtle cathedral grain pattern with fine, closed growth rings and minor mineral flecking. Fine, uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-tan to creamy pale blond-brown heartwood/sapwood tone with minor surface discoloration, water staining, and light surface oxidation. Lightly darkens to an amber hue upon aging and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard) for face species; core strength varies depending on plywood construction
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Poor resistance to rot, moisture, and exterior decay; susceptible to insect attack if exposed to damp conditions.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.50 - $6.50 per square foot (for 3/4-inch Cabinet Grade Birch/Maple Plywood)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern manufactured panel, likely 10-30 years old, showing moderate surface wear, oxidation, saw/sander marks, and minor water marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Widely available, sustainably harvested, FSC options standard across major suppliers.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, interior furniture, drawer sides, shelving, architectural millwork, tabletop substrate, shop jigs.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Central North America
Workability
Very easy to machine and cut with standard shop tools, though prone to tearout on crosscuts if sharp blades are not used. Takes glue very well. Holds screws securely.
Finish Recommendations
Resands well with fine-grit sandpaper. Accepts clear finishes such as polyurethane, lacquer, shellac, and wiping oils. Gel stains recommended if staining to avoid blotchiness on closed-grain fibers.
Notable Features
Very faint or non-existent scent. Fine-textured closed-grain surface that provides a very smooth finish. High dimensional stability due to cross-laminated plywood construction.
