Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, even texture and subtle flat-sawn cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with little visible distinction from the heartwood, exhibiting a natural light luster that deepens to a warm amber over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot for standard FAS grade lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent stock, kiln-dried, estimated at 1 to 5 years since milling.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, evaluated as least concern on the IUCN Red List, widely available and sustainably harvested.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, flooring, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, cutting boards, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging due to its hardness; prone to burning when routed or shaped with high-speed cutters, but glues and turns well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well, though a pre-color conditioner may be needed to prevent blotching.
Notable Features
High density and shock resistance, fine uniform texture, negligible odor, and good steam bending properties.
