Likely hard maple, possibly soft maple; the subtle figure may indicate curly or ambrosia-free figured stock.
Acer saccharum (hard/sugar maple); alternative Acer rubrum or Acer saccharinum. · Hardwood (deciduous).
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood (deciduous).
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States and Canada.
- Hardness
- Sugar maple: approximately 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft maple alternatives are roughly 950 lbf—Medium.
- Durability
- Slightly durable; limited natural resistance to rot, insects, and weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, fine and diffuse-textured, with mild wavy/curly figure and localized irregular grain; likely flat-sawn or mildly rift-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to pale tan with minimal sapwood-heartwood contrast, satin luster, and occasional gray-brown mineral streaking. It typically yellows slightly with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
Sugar maple: approximately 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Soft maple alternatives are roughly 950 lbf—Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; limited natural resistance to rot, insects, and weathering.
Value & Age
Approximately $5–$12 per board foot for clear figured maple, varying substantially by thickness, grade, and region.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be reliably estimated from this clean, unfinished face; it appears relatively fresh or recently milled.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher blocks, millwork, turning, musical instruments, and decorative veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States and Canada.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though hard maple can burn, dull tools, and tear out slightly around irregular grain. Pre-drilling is useful; gluing is generally straightforward.
Finish Recommendations
Sand progressively to 180–220 grit, then use lacquer, shellac, or water-/oil-based polyurethane. A washcoat or conditioner can reduce uneven stain absorption.
Notable Features
Fine texture, pale appearance, good polish, and potential chatoyance or curl when finished.
