Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain, though it can be wavy. It has a fine, even texture with a subtle, tight grain appearance common in flat-sawn selects.
Color Description
Creamy white sapwood with a slight reddish-brown heartwood. The sample shown is primarily clear sapwood, known for its high luster and tendency to amber/yellow over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; low resistance to rot and insect attack, typically used for interior applications only.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), kitchen cabinetry, butcher blocks, furniture, musical instruments, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $9.00 per board foot (depending on region and grade)
Wood Age Estimate
New/Recent; the wood shows no significant oxidation, patina, or wear. It appears to be freshly surfaced or kiln-dried dimensional lumber.
Sustainability Status
Sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its high density can cause burning with high-speed cutters (like routers). Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its extreme abrasion resistance and 'closed' grain which makes it excellent for food-prep surfaces. Generally odorless and non-toxic.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethane is recommended to maintain the white color; oil-based finishes will highlight the grain but cause immediate yellowing/ambering.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the creamy white color, tight pore structure, and lack of distinct latewood lines are classic indicators of Acer saccharum, though it is visually similar to Soft Maple (Acer rubrum).