Most likely hard maple (possibly sugar maple); alternatives include soft maple or pale beech.
Acer saccharum (probable); Acer rubrum or Fagus grandifolia are alternatives. · Hardwood; likely domestic North American.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; likely domestic North American.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and northeastern United States and Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft maple is approximately 950 lbf.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; sapwood is generally vulnerable to decay and insects, so it is mainly suited to interior use.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight, fine, close grain with minimal figure; appears flat- or rift-sawn. End grain is not visible, limiting certainty.
Color & Appearance
Very pale cream to nearly white with subtle tan variation and low-to-moderate luster; maple typically develops a warmer honey tone with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft maple is approximately 950 lbf.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; sapwood is generally vulnerable to decay and insects, so it is mainly suited to interior use.
Value & Age
Approximately $4–9 per board foot for clear kiln-dried maple; premium figured 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
- Freshly milled or lightly aged; the clean pale surface shows little oxidation or wear. Exact age cannot be determined visually.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, trim, butcher-block products, turning, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and northeastern United States and Canada.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though hard maple can burn, dull blades, and tear out slightly around knots. Pre-drilling is advisable; gluing is generally reliable.
Finish Recommendations
Sand uniformly and apply clear lacquer, shellac, polyurethane, or hardwax oil; water-based finishes preserve the pale color best.
Notable Features
Fine texture, good dimensional stability, and small mineral/stress marks or knots visible in the sample.
