Hard Maple (also known as Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and fine, displaying a flat-sawn cathedral pattern on the face here. Features a closed, uniform texture with occasional slight waves; lacks prominent figure like bird's eye or curl in this specific sample.
Color Description
Creamy off-white to light reddish-brown sapwood (primary part shown). Finely diffuse-porous. It has a natural medium luster and typically ages to a golden amber or yellow hue over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated in exterior conditions.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts and bowling alleys), kitchen cabinetry, butcher blocks, furniture, musical instruments (mostly necks), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh cut; lack of significant oxidation or deep ambering suggests the wood has been processed within the last 1-2 years and stored indoors.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. FSC certification is common for this species.
Workability
Generally good but requires sharp tools to prevent burning. It can be difficult to plane without tearout if grain is figured. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though it can sometimes blotch when stained.
Notable Features
High density and resistance to abrasion; closed grain makes it very hygienic for food contact surfaces. Almost odorless when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Clear film-building finishes like polyurethane or lacquer are excellent for protecting its light color. If staining, use a pre-stain conditioner to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy color, closed pore structure, and characteristic fine grain lines are hallmarks of commercial Hard Maple.