Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, even texture, showing subtle cathedral patterns on the flat-sawn face.
Color & Appearance
The sapwood is a creamy white with a slight reddish-brown tinge, while the heartwood ranges from light reddish-brown to dark brown. The wood has a natural moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot for standard lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly milled or recently harvested based on the raw surface texture, lack of heavy oxidation, and surface dust.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely abundant and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, workbench tops, musical instruments, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn when routed or cut with high-speed machinery due to its density. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and dyes evenly, though blotching can occur. Clear finishes like water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, lacquer, and shellac work very well.
Notable Features
Known for high shock resistance and density, sometimes exhibiting desirable figures like bird's eye or curly grain, though this sample is relatively plain.
