Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with prominent curly or tiger stripe figure visible under the turned surface.
Color & Appearance
Light golden-tan to reddish-amber color with a warm luster, heavily influenced by an amber-toned clear finish that has aged over time.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber, significantly higher for figured curly or tiger maple grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 30 to 50 years old based on the patina of the clear finish and wear patterns on the turned furniture component.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, abundant and widely available from sustainably managed forests in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, turned items, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, flooring, musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Can be challenging to work due to high hardness; prone to burning when routed or sawed if feed rates are too slow, but turns very cleanly on a lathe.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, oils, and lacquers exceptionally well. A clear varnish or lacquer accentuates the curly grain figure.
Notable Features
Dense, heavy, strong, and features distinct chatoyancy (tiger stripe/curly figure) which creates a three-dimensional shimmering effect under light.
