
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 irregular grain with a prominent cathedral or flat-sawn pattern visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with little visible difference from the heartwood, exhibiting a fine texture and moderate natural luster
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
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated less than 1 to 5 years old based on clean, bright surface appearance
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List, widely abundant and sustainably harvested in North America
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, workbench tops, bowling alleys, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing due to friction; glues and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains evenly when pre-conditioned, accepts clear coats like polyurethane, lacquer, or hardening oils exceptionally well
Notable Features
High density, fine uniform texture, excellent shock resistance, and prone to mineral streaks or minor sugar stains