Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with a uniform texture. Features a subtle rift-sawn appearance on the face with tight, consistent growth rings.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish brown sapwood. The heartwood is a darker reddish brown. This sample is primarily clear sapwood with a subtle luster; it will typically yellow or amber slightly with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments (piano blocks/guitar necks), turning, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Freshly milled; less than 5 years old based on the bright color, lack of oxidation, and clean CNC or band-saw cut edges.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high density and can cause burn marks if blades are dull. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; produces a sweet scent when worked; can cause allergic reactions in some individuals; known for excellent acoustic properties.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the white color; oils and solvent-based lacquers will cause immediate ambering. Sanding to high grits (220+) is recommended for a smooth finish.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy color, tight grain, diffuse-porous structure visible on the edges, and the specific application as a small craft object are classic indicators of Acer saccharum.