Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack if left unprotected.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture and subtle cathedral patterning on the flat-sawn face.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood with pale sapwood, showing moderate luster and a tendency to amber slightly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack if left unprotected.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.50 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned lumber, roughly 5 to 15 years old based on surface oxidation and minor checking.
- 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, flooring, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, cutting boards, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging due to its hardness; prone to burning when routing or cutting if feed rates are too slow, but machines and glues well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though it can blotch; pre-stain wood conditioners, water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, and lacquers produce excellent results.
Notable Features
High density and shock resistance, neutral odor when dry, and occasionally exhibits prized figures like bird's eye or curly patterns.
