Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf - Hard
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if exposed to outdoor moisture.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with fine, uniform texture; displays soft cathedral arching from flat-sawn cutting around a natural knot cluster.
Color & Appearance
Creamy off-white to light yellowish-tan sapwood with subtle golden undertones. Heartwood (near the knot) shows darker reddish-brown hues. Tends to amber slightly over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf - Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if exposed to outdoor moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $9.00 per board foot for select/better grade 4/4 stock.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently surfaced lumber; estimated harvest/processing within the past 1 to 5 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List); not CITES restricted; widely available from sustainably managed forests (FSC certified).
Common Uses
Flooring, high-end cabinetry, furniture, cutting boards, butcher blocks, musical instruments, workbench tops, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Workability
Fairly good workability, though its high density can cause burning with dull high-speed cutters or saw blades; glues and turns exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts clear topcoats very well such as water-based or oil-based polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac; blotching can occur with dark stains unless sealed/pre-conditioned first.
Notable Features
Closed-pore diffuse-porous structure resulting in a smooth surface; heavy and abrasion-resistant with minimal natural odor.
