Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, even texture. This sample shows flat-sawn cathedral patterns, occasional swirls around knots, and minor irregular grain near bird's eye-like clusters.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish brown; sapwood is a creamy white to off-yellow. These flooring planks show significant light ambering and some darker mineral streaks (brownish/black pits and lines).
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and not recommended for exterior ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring (gymnasiums, basketball courts, residential), cabinetry, furniture, cutting boards, bowling pins, and musical instruments (guitar necks).
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Canada and Eastern United States).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot (standard grade); higher for select/clear grades.
Wood Age Estimate
10-20 years. The surface shows ambering of the finish and numerous fine surface scratches/wear consistent with a residential floor of that age.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably through FSC certification.
Workability
Fairly easy to work, though high density can lead to burning with high-speed cutters. Glues, turns, and finishes well. Can be difficult to stain evenly without a wood conditioner.
Notable Features
Distinguished by its high density and abrasion resistance; sometimes exhibits bird's eye or curly figures. It is the primary source of maple syrup.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the white color; oil-based finishes (seen here) result in a warm amber glow. Sanding to a high grit is necessary for a smooth finish.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic creamy color, cathedral grain patterns, small dark mineral steaks, and small tight knots are classic indicators of Hard Maple flooring.