Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, ranging across the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture, commonly presenting a subtle flat-sawn to rift-sawn pattern without prominent figure in this particular sample.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood with little visible distinction from the sapwood, exhibiting a moderate natural luster that tends to darken slightly to a warm amber with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically ranging from $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and kiln-dried status.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recently milled, showing fresh surface conditions with minimal significant oxidation or patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN; widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, bowling alleys, butcher blocks, musical instruments, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging across the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn when routed or cross-cut due to high friction; glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, oils, and lacquers exceptionally well; pre-stain wood conditioner is often recommended to prevent blotching.
Notable Features
Heavy, dense, and strong with a fine texture; known for excellent shock resistance and abrasion resistance, though it can occasionally exhibit mineral streaks.
