Maple (most likely Soft Maple)
Acer rubrum (Red Maple) or Acer saccharinum (Silver Maple) • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, even texture. The sample shows subtle curly or tiger-stripe figure in some areas, visible through the figure chatoyancy.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood. The sapwood is very light and often indistinguishable from heartwood in younger trees. It tends to turn a golden amber color as it ages and is exposed to UV light.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Janka) - Medium
Durability Rating
Non-durable; rated as perishable regarding decay resistance and susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, boxes, crates, turned objects, veneer, musical instruments, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on figure intensity and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced lumber; shows rough mill marks and lacks significant oxidation or patina expected in older wood.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It turns, glues, and finishes well, though it can occasionally experience blotchiness when staining.
Notable Features
Essentially odorless. Known for having good acoustic properties and for being one of the most common commercial hardwoods in North America.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coat finishes like polyurethane or lacquer work well to showcase the grain. Use a pre-stain wood conditioner if staining to avoid uneven absorption and blotching.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the light color, fine texture, and characteristic 'fuzz' from sawing are indicative of the Acer genus, specifically the softer varieties of Maple.