Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack if left untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture and subtle figure.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with little color variation; heartwood is darker reddish-brown. Luster is moderate and it tends to amber slightly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack if left untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh or recently milled lumber, estimated at 1 to 5 years old based on clean, un-patinated surface.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally abundant and well-managed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, cutting boards, workbench tops, musical instruments (violin backs, guitar necks), bowling alleys, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging due to its hardness. Prone to burning when routing or cutting if feed rates are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though staining can sometimes be blotchy.
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear finishes like water-based or oil-based polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac exceptionally well. Pre-stain conditioner is recommended if applying an even stain color.
Notable Features
High shock resistance, dense weight, fine texture, and prone to sugar streaks (small pith flecks). Excellent acoustic properties.
