Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture, generally flat-sawn to rift-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood with pale yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, and darkens slightly to a warm amber with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and kiln-dried status
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly milled or recently processed lumber, showing minimal aging, patina, or oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list, widely available and sustainably managed in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, cutting boards, interior millwork, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging due to high hardness; prone to burning during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow, but glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, lacquers, and oils exceptionally well, though pre-stain conditioner may be needed to prevent blotching.
Notable Features
High density, excellent shock resistance, fine uniform texture, and occasionally exhibits special figures like bird's eye, curly, or quilted patterns.
