Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture, commonly turned or shaped into dowels or tool handles.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with little visible difference from the heartwood. Low natural luster, darkens slightly to a golden amber with age.
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
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for lumber, higher for processed items like dowels.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent manufacture, likely 1 to 5 years old based on surface wear and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Tool handles, dowels, flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, and bowling alley lanes.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing due to its high density.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, paints, and clear finishes (polyurethane, lacquer, oil) very well; pre-stain conditioner can help prevent blotching.
Notable Features
High shock resistance, dense structure, excellent bending properties when steamed, and minimal splintering.
