Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, even texture. The sample shows faint curly or 'tiger' figure characteristic of Acer species, appearing as dark horizontal bands across the grain.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically light tan or reddish brown; sapwood is creamy white to off-white. This sample shows significant oxidation and surface staining, resulting in a yellowish-honey patina with darker weathered patches.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to rot and insect attack if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments (piano frames/guitar necks), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Canada and Northern USA)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $10.00 per board foot (standard grade); higher for figured 'curly' pieces.
Wood Age Estimate
20–40 years old. The deep oxidation, surface check cracks, and accumulation of dirt/oils indicate it has been in a workshop/storage environment for several decades.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with high-speed cutters (bits/blades). Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often has a faint sweet scent when cut; known for its high resistance to abrasion and excellent acoustic clarity.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on poly or lacquer to preserve the light color. If the figure is desired to pop, a light oil finish (boiled linseed oil) followed by a topcoat is recommended.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The tight pore structure, characteristic yellowish patina of aged maple, and presence of transverse 'tiger' striping are classic indicators of Acer saccharum.