Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, even texture. Shows visible cathedral patterns and light undulating figure common in flat-sawn cuts.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish brown. The heartwood is a darker reddish brown, while the sapwood (most commonly used) is very pale. It tends to yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments (piano blocks), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing, likely 5-20 years old based on the surface oxidation and slight mechanical wear patterns.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its high density can cause burning with high-speed cutters. It glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its high abrasion resistance and density. Sugar maple is also the primary source of maple syrup. It has no characteristic odor.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Water-based polyurethane is recommended to maintain the white color; oil-based finishes will highlight warmth but accelerate yellowing.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identifying features include the characteristic tight pore structure, pale coloring, and distinct cathedral grain arching visible in the lower right quadrant.