Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable (susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture)
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with occasional subtle wave or subtle cathedral pattern from flat-sawn boards
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with a slight golden amber patina from age and light exposure; low to medium natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable (susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years old based on the installed flooring format and moderate amber patina
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with FSC certification options
Common Uses
Flooring, high-end furniture, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, cutting boards, workbenches, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging to machine due to high density; prone to burning during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow; glues and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, water-based clears, or conversion varnishes; pre-staining can be blotchy, so a gel stain or conditioner is recommended if coloring
Notable Features
High shock resistance, dense fine texture, excellent wear resistance, tends to show burn marks from high-friction machining
