Most likely soft maple, probably Silver Maple; alternatives include Red Maple or Poplar. — Acer saccharinum (likely); Acer rubrum or Liriodendron tulipifera are alternatives.

Most likely soft maple, probably Silver Maple; alternatives include Red Maple or Poplar.

Acer saccharinum (likely); Acer rubrum or Liriodendron tulipifera are alternatives. · Hardwood (deciduous), domestic North American.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (deciduous), domestic North American.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Mississippi Valley, and eastern United States.
Hardness
Approximately 750 lbf Janka—Soft by the requested scale.
Durability
Non-durable to slightly durable; limited resistance to decay, insects, and weathering, so generally intended for interior use.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine and diffuse-textured, with subtle wavy/curly figure and occasional mineral streaking; appears flat- or plain-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Very pale cream to light tan heartwood and nearly white sapwood, with low natural contrast and mild satin luster. It typically yellows slightly with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 750 lbf Janka—Soft by the requested scale.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Non-durable to slightly durable; limited resistance to decay, insects, and weathering, so generally intended for interior use.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $3–$7 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried soft maple; local pricing and grade vary.

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 recently surfaced; little oxidation, patina, or wear is visible. The wood’s biological age cannot be estimated from this photograph.

Common Uses

Cabinet interiors, furniture, millwork, drawer parts, flooring, boxes, veneer, and turning.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Mississippi Valley, and eastern United States.

Workability

Machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though soft maple can show machining marks and burn during routing. Pre-drilling is useful near edges.

Finish Recommendations

Use sanding sealer or conditioner to reduce uneven absorption, then apply clear lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane. Clear finishes preserve its pale appearance.

Notable Features

Lightweight, fine-textured, relatively uniform wood with occasional attractive curl; the image shows possible mineral streaks and minor surface defects.

Learn more about Most likely soft maple, probably Silver Maple; alternatives include Red Maple or Poplar. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 5, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Soft Maple, Probably Silver Maple; Alternatives Include Red Maple Or Poplar. in the encyclopedia

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