Hard vs. Soft Maple

Maple is one of the most common species of hardwoods in North America. And while there are many variations of the Maple, they are typically placed in to two categories: Hard Maple and Soft Maple.

Hard Maple is most commonly known as Sugar Maple, whereas Soft Maples are found in varieties like the Big Leaf Maple and the Red Maple.

Hard Maple wood is most commonly used for bowling alleys, bowling pins, baseball bats, pool cue shafts, and butchers blocks. Soft Maple is used for cabinets, musical instruments, doors, turning and mill-work. The term "Soft" does not mean the wood itself is soft, but it is softer than Hard Maple. Soft Maple is still very durable and perfect for the uses above.

So how can you tell the difference between the two?

• Observe the leaves. Hard Maple leaves have sinuses or U-shaped valleys between the points of the lead, also referred to as lobes. The lobes are similar to the round gaps between our fingers. A Soft Maple leaf, however, has sinuses that are more V-shaped.

• Take note of the color. Hard Maple usually has a lighter, more uniform color. Soft Maple is typically darker, sometimes carrying hues of brown, red, or even grey.

• Weigh the boards. While a number of variables can sway these results, weighing Soft Maple vs. Hard Maple can help identify between the two.. Often, Hard Maple boards are heavier than Soft Maple boards.

• Test with Iron Sulfate. Dabbing a small amount Iron Sulfate to a Maple board results in one of two reactions. If applied to Hard Maple, iron sulfate will create a pale blue or green color on the board. On a Soft Maple board, the chemical will turn dark blue to black in color.

To learn more or to start the discussion about selling your timber, contact us today.