• Environmental Disorders of Wood Plants (see Sunscald)  https://extension.colostate.edu/docs/pubs/garden/02932.pdf
• Wrapping Trees for Winter  https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/653.pdf

Maple trees, particularly silver maples, are known to shed their bark as part of their natural growth process. As they get older and bigger, the bark may shed, especially in the summer months. This is a common occurrence and is not necessarily a cause for concern if the trees look healthy overall. However, if you notice other symptoms such as dead branches throughout the canopy, an especially thin canopy, or abnormal leaves, these could be signs of disease or other problems.........."

Dear JoEllen, here's the response to your question:

Hi, Jody:

Thanks so much for your response.  I can see the potential for confusion.  Silver and Black Maples (the hard maples) do shed bark as they grow older.  However, they are not commonly planted here, as our soils are so alkaline.  Is is possible for you to send photos of the trees you are observing for me to evaluate?

Reference
Maple Trees - https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/trees-shrubs-vines/1733-maple-trees/

Best,
Mari

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