Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture; intended for indoor use only.
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Grain Pattern
Rotary-cut veneer / flat-sliced grain with characteristically subtle, flowing cathedral patterns, fine diffuse-porous texture, and faint wavy curling figure.
Color & Appearance
Creamy off-white to pale golden blond/tan. Low to medium luster. Hard maple sapwood is predominantly light, darkening slightly to a warm golden amber tone with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture; intended for indoor use only.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 to $9.00 per board foot equivalent (or approximately $65–$110 per 4x8 sheet for high-grade maple plywood).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern processing; fresh, freshly-milled veneer panel (less than 5 years old) showing no significant oxidation or historical patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Not CITES listed. Widely available, sustainably harvested across North America, and readily available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Plywood facing, cabinetry, fine furniture, architectural millwork, interior paneling, tabletop surfaces, and butcher blocks.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Workability
Machine-works very well with sharp carbide tooling. Smooth sanding and excellent gluing properties. Pre-drilling required for fasteners due to density. Can burn easily if router or saw feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts clear topcoats extremely well (water-based or oil-based polyurethane, lacquer, shellac). Prone to blotching when stained directly with dark liquid stains; gel stains or pre-stain conditioners are recommended if coloring.
Notable Features
Closed diffuse-porous structure resulting in a very smooth surface texture; fine uniform pore distribution; sapwood is the primary commercially preferred part of the tree unlike most hardwoods.
