Hard Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. Shows occasional slight waves and traditional cathedral patterns in flat-sawn sections. Distinct reddish-brown growth rings are visible.
Color Description
Predominantly creamy white to off-white sapwood (which is the primary commercial part of the tree). The heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. This sample shows high luster and will likely age to a golden yellow patina over time.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; very susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/exterior conditions.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), kitchen cabinetry, butcher blocks, furniture, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly processed or surfacing (less than 1 year since last mill/sanding) based on the bright color and lack of ambering/oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent for machining; turns, glues, and finishes well. However, its high density can lead to burning with high-speed router bits or saw blades if the feed rate is too slow.
Notable Features
Heavy and stiff with excellent abrasion resistance. It is often referred to as Sugar Maple and is the source of maple syrup. Generally odorless.
Finish Recommendations
Responds best to clear coats like polyurethane or lacquer; takes dyes well but can be prone to blotching when using oil-based stains without a pre-stain conditioner.
Identification Confidence
High. The creamy color, fine-pored texture, and specific grain pattern with tight growth rings are prototypical of Acer saccharum.