Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and uniform texture with occasional subtle curl or figure
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with little visible distinction from the heartwood, moderate natural luster, and tends to amber slightly with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard FAS grade lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or kiln-dried stock, estimated under 5 years old based on clean, fresh surface and lack of deep oxidation patina
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status, widely abundant, not listed on CITES appendices, and readily available with FSC certification options
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, bowling alley lanes, cutting boards, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America
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 density; glues, turns, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well, though pre-stain wood conditioner is often recommended to prevent blotching due to its fine and closed grain structure
Notable Features
High density, excellent shock resistance, fine uniform texture, and a high susceptibility to burning during high-friction machining operations
