Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed, fine, and uniform texture. Grain is generally straight but sometimes wavy; features subtle cathedral patterns typical of flat-sawn planks.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood. The sample shows a golden-amber patina from age and a warm, low-luster finish. It tends to yellow significantly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture, though high resistance to mechanical wear.
Common Uses
Residential and commercial flooring, basketball courts, cabinetry, furniture, cutting boards, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $10.00 per board foot (select grade)
Wood Age Estimate
20–50 years, based on the ambering of the finish, tight joints, and character of the surface wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Generally good, though its high density can cause burning with high-speed cutters. Gluing and finishing are excellent, but it can be difficult to stain evenly without a pre-conditioner.
Notable Features
Known for its extreme abrasion resistance; faint sweet odor when freshly cut; contains high sugar content which contributes to burn marks during machining.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based polyurethane for durability and warmth, or water-based finishes to prevent the natural yellowing/ambering process.
Identification Confidence
High. The tight, closed-grain structure, absence of large pores (unlike Oak), and specific ambering pattern are classic indicators of aged Hard Maple flooring.