Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and fine with a closed-pore structure. This sample shows a faint cathedral figure and minimal movement, appearing as a flat-sawn or riftsawn cut. No distinct figure like bird's eye or curly figure is present in this specific section.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown. The sapwood is the primary commercial part, which is pale off-white; the heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. This sample shows a very light, uniform cream color with high luster and minimal color variation.
Hardness Rating
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable. It is susceptible to decay and insect attack if used outdoors or in high-moisture environments.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts and bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, pool cues, musical instruments, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Fresh/Modern. The wood shows minimal oxidation (patina) and lacks the deep yellowing associated with old-growth or aged Maple, suggesting it was processed within the last 5-10 years.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List status: Least Concern. Widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it is susceptible to burning if tools are dull or feed rates are slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; scentless; widely used for food-contact surfaces due to its density and closed pores.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Water-based finishes are recommended to maintain the white color; oil-based finishes will impart a yellowish/amber tint over time.
Identification Confidence
High. The uniform light color, tight closed-pore grain, and characteristic 'fleshy' appearance of the growth ring transition are definitive for North American Maple.