hardwood · Acer macrophyllum
Bigleaf Maple wood properties
Also known as: oregon maple.
| Type | hardwood |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Acer macrophyllum |
| Modulus of elasticity (MOE) | 1,450,000 psi |
| Specific gravity | 0.55 |
| Density (approx) | 34 lb/ft³ (2.9 lb per board foot) |
| Janka hardness | 850 lbf |
| Shrinkage (tangential / radial) | 7.1% / 3.7% |
| Region | Pacific coast of North America |
A 1 in x 6 in x 8 ft board of Bigleaf Maple weighs about 11.4 lb (roughly 34 lb per cubic foot). Its Janka hardness of 850 lbf is harder than about 38% of the woods in our database.
Uses and working notes
Common uses: veneer, pulpwood, boxes, musical instruments, turned objects.
Durability: Non-durable to perishable where decay is concerned.
Workability: Reasonably easy, though fast cutters may scorch it; finishes, glues and turns well.
Use this data
Similar woods
Woods with comparable hardness and density to Bigleaf Maple:
How these numbers were sourced
MOE, SG (12% MC), Janka and shrinkage from The Wood Database (cites USDA FPL Wood Handbook). Bigleaf maple is not listed in the FPL/Hoadley dimensional-change table, so CT/CR are omitted. Uses, region, durability, workability summarized from The Wood Database. Price indicative.
Values shown as estimates rather than sourced constants: typicalPricePerBF_usd.
Sources
These calculators are for planning and estimation. Engineering results (shelf sag, wood movement) use published average material properties; real boards vary by grade, grain, moisture and defects. Verify load-bearing designs with a professional.