Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Northeastern United States and Eastern Canada)
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture without protection
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with fine, uniform texture; faint cathedral arcs and subtle bird's eye/curly chatoyance visible under direct light
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-tan to creamy white heartwood and sapwood mix with fine growth ring lines; darkens slightly to a warm golden tone with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture without protection
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $7.00 - $11.00 per board foot (Select & Better grade)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber; freshly milled to a few years old based on clean, sharp dimensioned edges and minimal surface oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List); widely available, not CITES listed, readily available with FSC certification
Common Uses
Flooring, fine furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, butcher blocks, musical instruments, turnings, and veneer
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Northeastern United States and Eastern Canada)
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and power tools, though high density can dull cutters; turns, glues, and sands exceptionally well; prone to burn marks during routing or high-speed ripping
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear topcoats like polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac extremely well; blotching can occur with dark stains unless a pre-stain conditioner or dye is applied first
Notable Features
Closed pore structure creates an exceptionally smooth surface finish; high wear resistance and excellent steam-bending qualities
