Most likely hard maple (possibly sugar maple); alternatives include silver maple or beech.
Acer saccharum (likely) · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and northeastern United States and Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf Janka; Hard.
- Durability
- Slightly durable; generally limited natural resistance to decay and insects, especially outdoors.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight, fine and close-textured grain with subtle growth-line variation; plain-sawn or rift/quarter-sawn appearance, no pronounced figure.
Color & Appearance
Very pale cream to nearly white heartwood and sapwood with a soft, even luster. The dark horizontal streak is localized mineral staining; maple typically yellows slightly with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf Janka; Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; generally limited natural resistance to decay and insects, especially outdoors.
Value & Age
Approximately US$5–12 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried hard maple; figured or premium stock can cost 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
- Appears freshly milled or lightly aged; the dark streak is natural staining rather than evidence of substantial age.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, butcher-block-style work, trim, turnings, 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 its hardness can blunt tools and tearout may occur with figured grain. Glues, screws, and finishes reliably after proper surface preparation.
Finish Recommendations
Use clear lacquer, shellac, polyurethane, or hardwax oil; sanding sealer helps produce an even result. Pretest stains because maple can blotch.
Notable Features
Fine texture, relatively high density, clean pale appearance, and occasional mineral streaking or curly/bird’s-eye figure.
