Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and fine, but showing faint wavy/curly figure in this specific board; closed-grain texture with medium luster.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood; sapwood is preferred and is very pale white. Subject to slight yellowing with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring (especially basketball courts), furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, turned objects, and butcher blocks.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on figure and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
New milled stock (less than 1 year); shows fresh machining marks, bright color without significant patina or oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with dull bits. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; faint sweet scent when being worked; known for its high sugar content in sap.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; water-based polyurethanes help preserve the white color, while oils will deepen the amber tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of creamy-white color, tight grain, and subtle ripple/curl figure is characteristic of high-grade Acer saccharum.