Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, primarily the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Close, uniform texture with straight to slightly irregular grain, showing distinct growth rings visible across the curved turned surface.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with darker heartwood variations; low to moderate natural luster with some darker staining.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for lumber, though higher for finished turned bowls.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old, showing natural drying checks, surface oxidation, and patina characteristic of older turned items.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN; widely available and sustainably harvested.
Common Uses
Turned wooden bowls, flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, primarily the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Can be challenging to work due to hardness; prone to burning during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow, but turns cleanly on a lathe.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains evenly, though conditioner is recommended for uniform color; finishes well with lacquer, polyurethane, or food-safe oils for turned bowls.
Notable Features
High density, fine uniform texture, excellent shock resistance, and prone to burning with high-friction tools.
