Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture. This sample shows subtle wavy and irregular figure with some cathedral peaking in the lower sections. Individual growth rings are visible but faint.
Color Description
Sapwood is a creamy white to off-white, while the heartwood is a reddish-brown. This sample appears to be primarily sapwood with a low luster and natural matte appearance, likely to yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and fungal decay if exposed to moisture/outdoor conditions.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, butcher blocks, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/New. The lack of significant patina, oxidation, or wear suggests it is a relatively recent cut or a well-maintained interior surface.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally sustainable and widely available; often FSC certified.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn with high-speed cutters (like routers). Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear. Does not have a characteristic odor. Heavy density and high tannin content compared to softwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Clear water-based polyurethanes are recommended to prevent yellowing; oil-based finishes will enhance the amber tone. Shellac or lacquer are also excellent for its fine grain.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The creamy color, tight grain structure, and subtle figure are highly characteristic of Acer saccharum, though certain species of Birch or Soft Maple can look similar under diffuse lighting.