Soft Maple Wood Guide 2026
Acer spp.
Typically described as lighter domestic maple variety
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 58 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: United States;Canada
- Common uses include Furniture, Cabinetry, Millwork
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: The texture is fine and consistent throughout.
Workability: It is very easy to work, machine, and glue.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: It can be blotchy when stained and often requires a conditioner.
Color change: It is relatively color-stable but prone to yellowing with oil-based finishes.
Insect resistance: It has very poor resistance to decay and insect attack.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Soft Maple. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths are standard in the domestic market. | Random lengths are standard from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths are standard in the domestic market. | Random lengths are standard from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths are standard in the domestic market. | Random lengths are standard from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths are standard in the domestic market. | Random lengths are standard from 6 to 12 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths are standard in the domestic market.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are standard from 6 to 12 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard in the domestic market.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are standard from 6 to 12 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard in the domestic market.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are standard from 6 to 12 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths are standard in the domestic market.
- Lengths
- Random lengths are standard from 6 to 12 feet.
Availability notes: Widely and readily available throughout North America.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Cream to light reddish
Grain: Straight; fine texture
Common Uses
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Millwork
- Doors
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Silver Maple;Red Maple
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 950 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States;Canada
- Excellent density for wear resistance
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Soft Maple is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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