Likely soft maple; red maple or silver maple are plausible alternatives. The image is too dim and lacks clear end grain for reliable species-level identification. — Acer rubrum or Acer saccharinum (tentative)

Likely soft maple; red maple or silver maple are plausible alternatives. The image is too dim and lacks clear end grain for reliable species-level identification.

Acer rubrum or Acer saccharinum (tentative) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America; both species grow widely in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Hardness
Red maple: about 950 lbf; silver maple: about 700 lbf. Medium to soft, respectively.
Durability
Slightly durable; untreated maple is generally susceptible to decay and insect attack, especially outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine, subtle grain; the visible face appears flatsawn or plainsawn, without distinctive figure.

Color & Appearance

Pale cream to light gray-brown appearance, though lighting and image quality may distort color. Heartwood/sapwood distinction and aging cannot be assessed confidently.

Hardness (Janka)

Red maple: about 950 lbf; silver maple: about 700 lbf. Medium to soft, respectively.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable; untreated maple is generally susceptible to decay and insect attack, especially outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Common maple lumber is roughly US$3–8 per board foot retail, varying substantially with region, grade, thickness, and figure.

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 estimable from this image; no clear patina, wear, or oxidation indicators are visible.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, millwork, turning, and utility lumber.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America; both species grow widely in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada.

Workability

Generally machines and sands well; can burn under dull cutters, and figured grain may tear out. Gluing and fastening are usually straightforward with appropriate pilot holes.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply clear oil, lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane; use a pre-stain conditioner or washcoat if staining to reduce blotching.

Notable Features

The pictured piece appears pale and relatively uniform, with no obvious prominent figure; species-specific features cannot be confirmed.

Learn more about Likely soft maple; red maple or silver maple are plausible alternatives. The image is too dim and lacks clear end grain for reliable species-level identification. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 24, 2026