Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture; the image shows soft cathedral growth on the face and tight, diffuse-porous growth rings on the end grain.
Color Description
Heartwood is a creamy white to light reddish-brown, though the sample appears to be mostly light-colored sapwood. It possesses a natural luster and will tend to turn a golden amber color with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and lacks resistance to decay if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, cutting boards, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced within the last 1-2 years based on the lack of oxidation and minimal surface wear.
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 machine tools, though it has a high density and can burn if saw blades are dull or feed rates are too slow. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Fine uniform texture and high abrasion resistance. It is known for producing maple syrup and has no characteristic odor or taste when dry.
Finish Recommendations
Tends to blotch with oil-based stains. Excellent results with clear film finishes like polyurethane or lacquer; pre-stain conditioners are recommended if staining.
Identification Confidence
High; the diffuse-porous end grain, light cream color, and subtle cathedral grain on the face are definitive characteristics of Hard Maple.