Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America, major regions include Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay, fungal stain, and insect attack if left exposed to moisture outdoor conditions.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with fine, uniform texture; faint growth ring arching (flat-sawn) and minor dark flecking/sugar streaks.
Color & Appearance
Light blonde to creamy off-white sapwood with subtle pale reddish-brown tones; high natural luster that tends to amber or golden yellow over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay, fungal stain, and insect attack if left exposed to moisture outdoor conditions.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot (depending on grade, thickness, and regional market).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber sample (under 5 years), freshly surfaced with minimal oxidation or ambient yellowing.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List). Not listed on CITES appendices. Abundant, widely available, and sustainably managed in North America.
Common Uses
Hardwood flooring, butcher blocks, cutting boards, fine furniture, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, musical instruments (violin backs, guitar necks), turning blanks.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America, major regions include Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Workability
Good overall workability, but highly dense; requires sharp carbide-tipped cutters to avoid burn marks. Tends to tear out on cross-grain or figured areas. Glues and sands to an extremely smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain conditioner required if using dark stains to prevent blotching. Clear water-based polyurethane or lacquer maintains bright light color; penetrating oil (tung, linseed, mineral oil) highlights natural grain depth.
Notable Features
Closed-grain structure, excellent abrasion resistance, neutral scent, non-toxic, highly resilient surface ideal for food preparation and high-impact uses.
