Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, specifically northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a subtle cathedral pattern visible on the flat-sawn stile, smooth fine texture.
Color & Appearance
Evenly stained medium-to-dark brown tone over originally pale creamy white to light golden-brown heartwood, exhibiting low natural luster under the pigmented finish.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years old based on modern cabinet construction style and factory finishing.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, highly sustainable, widely available with abundant forest management and FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior millwork, high-end flooring, cutting boards, and bowling alley lanes.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, specifically northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily when routed or sawed due to friction; glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and pigmented toners very uniformly; professional spray-applied conversion varnish, lacquer, or polyurethane works best for cabinetry.
Notable Features
Dense, heavy, fine-textured wood with high shock resistance and a tendency to scorch under high-speed machining.
