Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a subtle flat-sawn cathedral pattern and minor wavy figure
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood with pale yellowish-white sapwood, moderate luster, and ages to a warm amber patina over time with light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber grades
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated relatively modern, under 5 years based on the clean, unaged surface appearance outside of normal oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, widely abundant, not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists, readily available with FSC certification options
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, bowling alley lanes, and interior millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing due to high density and has a tendency to tear out with irregular grain
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes exceptionally well, though a pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotchiness; accepts oil, varnish, lacquer, and polyurethane smoothly
Notable Features
High density, excellent shock resistance, fine uniform texture, negligible odor, and burns easily under high friction
