Lexicon DIY-Knowledge

Ahorn / Acer

Arce

Érable

With the exception of tropical regions, many different types of maple trees grow all over the world. It can be recognised by its very uniform structure and fine texture, almost white to reddish grey colour and its distinct dark autumn wood. There are strong differences as far as the hardness of maple wood is concerned. In Northern America a distinction is made between soft maple and hard maple wood. Commercially available types of maple are the European sycamore (acer pseudoplatanus), a soft maple wood which is held in high esteem in our parts for its light colouring, and the American sugar maple (acer saccharum) with its firm, hard wood.

All types are similar in the characteristics and structure of their wood. Maple has good bending properties and can be easily and cleanly processed with all known tools. Polishing can produce highly decorative effects.
Maple wood can be protected against yellowing with age by applying UV absorbers. When the surface is treated with polyester varnish, there can be lengthy delays in film drying although there is a proper and even formation of a surface film.
Maple is highly recommended for turning and carving. It is often found as veneer wood in furniture, as solid wood in musical instruments, and also as wood for fittings and appliances.