Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America, as well as southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf, classified as Hard.
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and uniform texture with minimal distinctive figure visible on this specific face-sawn board.
Color & Appearance
Very pale off-white to creamy light golden-yellow color with very little visible difference between sapwood and heartwood.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf, classified as Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, approximately $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively modern, likely freshly milled or processed within the last 1 to 5 years.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not threatened on the IUCN Red List; widely abundant and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, workbench tops, musical instruments, and bowling alley lanes.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America, as well as southeastern Canada.
Workability
Can be challenging to machine due to its high density; prone to burning when routed or sawed if feed rates are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and clear finishes exceptionally well; water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, lacquers, and varnishes are commonly used.
Notable Features
High shock resistance, dense weight, fine texture, and lack of strong odor or distinctive natural oils.
