Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, even texture. This specific piece shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern toward the center and some minor mineral streaks.
Color Description
Predominantly creamy white sapwood with a slight reddish-brown tinge; heartwood is darker reddish brown. It has a high luster and typically yellows/golden-ages over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture, though very resistant to abrasion.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, veneer, musical instruments, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $7.00 to $11.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young lumber, likely kiln-dried and surfaced within the last 1-5 years based on the lack of deep oxidation or graying.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with high-speed cutters (like routers). It glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; produces no distinct odor; known for its high sap sugar content used to produce maple syrup.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes are recommended to maintain the white color; oil-based finishes will significantly yellow the wood. Sanding to higher grits is required as it shows scratches easily.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy color, characteristic grain structure, and subtle reddish-tan mineral streaks are classic identifiers for Acer saccharum.