Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and parts of southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with occasional subtle wave or curl figures.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light golden brown heartwood with distinct paler sapwood, displaying good natural luster under clear finishes.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.50 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years based on the stable appearance and modern polyurethane finish layer.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, evaluated as least concern by the IUCN, widely available from sustainably managed forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, heavy-duty flooring, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, cutting boards, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and parts of southeastern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to machine, turn, and glue, though it can burn easily during routing or high-speed cutting due to high density.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, and clear topcoats like polyurethane, lacquer, or varnish exceptionally well.
Notable Features
High density, fine uniform texture, excellent shock resistance, and moderate thermal insulation properties.
