Most likely soft maple, especially Silver Maple; alternatives include Sugar Maple or birch. — Acer saccharinum (probable); Acer saccharum or Betula spp. possible

Most likely soft maple, especially Silver Maple; alternatives include Sugar Maple or birch.

Acer saccharinum (probable); Acer saccharum or Betula spp. possible · Hardwood (deciduous)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood (deciduous)
Origin
Eastern and central North America, particularly the Great Lakes, Midwest, and southeastern Canada/United States.
Hardness
750 lbf Janka (Silver Maple), Soft; Sugar Maple is about 1,450 lbf, Hard.
Durability
Slightly durable; generally vulnerable to decay and insects when exposed outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine, and diffuse-porous; the visible face appears flat-sawn or obliquely cut, without distinctive figure.

Color & Appearance

Very pale cream to light tan with minimal heartwood/sapwood contrast; moderate natural luster and likely slight ambering with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

750 lbf Janka (Silver Maple), Soft; Sugar Maple is about 1,450 lbf, Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable; generally vulnerable to decay and insects when exposed outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $2–$5 per board foot for common kiln-dried maple; figured or select stock can cost substantially 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
Cannot be reliably estimated from this clean, unfinished sample; it appears recently cut or lightly handled.

Common Uses

Furniture parts, cabinetry, interior trim, boxes, pallets, turning, and general millwork.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, particularly the Great Lakes, Midwest, and southeastern Canada/United States.

Workability

Generally machines, glues, sands, and finishes well, though soft maple may compress or fuzz and can burn when routed or sanded aggressively.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply conditioner or washcoat before stain to reduce blotching; clear polyurethane, lacquer, shellac, or oil are suitable.

Notable Features

Lightweight, fine-textured, relatively uniform wood; the image shows no diagnostic scent or special figure.

Learn more about Most likely soft maple, especially Silver Maple; alternatives include Sugar Maple or birch. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 10, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Soft Maple, Especially Silver Maple; Alternatives Include Sugar Maple Or Birch. in the encyclopedia

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