Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Northeastern US and Southeastern Canada)
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and outdoor decay, best suited for interior applications
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain, fine and uniform texture, with faint cathedral lines visible on the rotary-cut/flat-sawn face
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-tan to creamy off-white color (sapwood driven), low natural luster, tends to amber or golden-yellow with exposure to light over time
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and outdoor decay, best suited for interior applications
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $10.00 per board foot for Select/Better grade (varies by region and thickness)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber sample (under 5 years), freshly processed or sanded with minimal surface oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Not listed under CITES. Widely available, sustainably harvested, and FSC-certified options are abundant
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, butcher blocks, cutting boards, furniture, musical instruments, baseball bats, turnings, and plywood/veneer
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Northeastern US and Southeastern Canada)
Workability
Fairly easy to work with power tools, though high density can cause burning with dull blades. Tends to split when nailed, pre-drilling recommended. Glues, turns, and sands extremely well
Finish Recommendations
Accepts clear coats, film finishes (polyurethane, lacquer), and wipe-on oils extremely well. Can be difficult to stain evenly due to blotching; a gel stain or pre-stain conditioner is recommended if dark color is desired
Notable Features
Closed-pore structure makes it smooth to the touch. Diffuse-porous anatomy creates very subtle grain contrast. Non-toxic and safe for food contact surfaces
