Hard Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be wavy; fine, even texture with a tight grain. Occasional cathedraling on flat-sawn surfaces.
Color Description
Creamy white to off-white sapwood (most commonly used) with a golden hue; heartwood is darker reddish-brown. Tends to yellow significantly with UV exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture; strictly for interior use.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), cabinetry, furniture, cutting boards, musical instruments, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced lumber based on the pale color and lack of deep oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools but turns beautifully; can be prone to burning if saw blades are dull or feed rate is too slow; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; neutral scent; dust can be a sensitizer for some users.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes are recommended to prevent yellowing; shellac and oils work well but will deepen the golden tone.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identified by the light creamy color, fine pore structure visible in the end grain of the cutoffs, and characteristic density shown in the splintering at the edges.