Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America, as well as parts of southeastern Canada
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf - Hard
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture or outdoor conditions
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a subtle flat-sawn cathedral pattern and minor pith flecks (characteristic brownish streaks caused by insect larvae)
Color & Appearance
The sapwood is a creamy white with a slight reddish-brown tinge, while the heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. It has a fine, uniform texture with moderate natural luster and tends to amber slightly to a golden-yellow hue over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf - Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture or outdoor conditions
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and kiln-dried status
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated to be freshly processed within the last 1 to 3 years based on clean surfaces and lack of deep oxidation patina
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices and not threatened on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and sustainably harvested in North America, with FSC-certified options common
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, hardwood flooring, cutting boards, bowling alley lanes, musical instruments, and workbench tops
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America, as well as parts of southeastern Canada
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn when routed or cross-cut due to friction. Glues, turns, and finishes well, but requires care when nailing or screwing to prevent splitting
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains evenly when a pre-stain conditioner is used to prevent blotchiness. Water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, lacquers, and varnishes yield excellent results while preserving the light natural tone
Notable Features
High shock resistance, heavy and dense weight, fine texture, and prone to exhibiting pith flecks and occasional mineral streaks
