Likely maple, possibly hard (sugar) maple; soft maple is a reasonable alternative. — Acer saccharum (hard maple); Acer rubrum or related Acer species (soft maple alternatives).

Likely maple, possibly hard (sugar) maple; soft maple is a reasonable alternative.

Acer saccharum (hard maple); Acer rubrum or related Acer species (soft maple alternatives). · Hardwood (deciduous).

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (deciduous).
Origin
Maples are native across North America; hard maple is concentrated in eastern Canada and the northeastern and north-central United States.
Hardness
Hard maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard; soft maple varies by species, commonly about 700–950 lbf, Soft to Medium.
Durability
Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited resistance to decay and outdoor weathering.

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Grain Pattern

Pale, mostly straight and fine-grained with subtle growth lines; appears flat-sawn or plain-sawn. No distinctive figure is visible.

Color & Appearance

Cream to light tan, apparently fairly uniform; the image does not clearly show heartwood versus sapwood. Fresh maple is typically pale and may yellow or amber with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

Hard maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard; soft maple varies by species, commonly about 700–950 lbf, Soft to Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited resistance to decay and outdoor weathering.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$5–12 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried domestic maple; grade and region affect price.

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 reliably estimable from this image; the surface looks freshly milled, with no clear patina or wear indicators.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher blocks, turning, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Maples are native across North America; hard maple is concentrated in eastern Canada and the northeastern and north-central United States.

Workability

Machines and sands well, though hard maple can burn with dull cutters and may tear out in figured areas; predrilling helps with fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply oil, lacquer, or polyurethane; use a washcoat or conditioner if an even stain color is desired.

Notable Features

Fine, even texture and good strength; figured maple can show striking curl or bird’s-eye patterns, neither evident here.

Learn more about Likely maple, possibly hard (sugar) maple; soft maple is a reasonable alternative. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 16, 2026