Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and closed, but often exhibits a faint cathedral pattern in flat-sawn sections as seen here. Occasional wavy or curly figure is possible, though the sample appears fairly uniform.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood. The sapwood is most commonly used and is a very pale off-white. It has a fine, even texture and a natural luster that yellows slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack. Best for indoor use only.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts, bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, pool cues, musical instruments, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot (USD) depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent, likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of deep oxidation and the modern mechanical milling marks.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification options.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it is susceptible to burn marks from high-speed cutters (like router bits). It turns, glues, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its high density and abrasion resistance. It has no characteristic odor and contains very little natural oil, making it an excellent choice for food-contact surfaces.
Finish Recommendations
Clear topcoats (polyurethane, lacquer) are recommended to preserve the white color. Dyes are preferred over pigments for staining as Maple often takes oil-based stains blotchily.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain, pale color, and specific cathedral arch pattern are classic indicators of Acer saccharum.