Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture, flat-sawn face grain showing mild cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood with pale sapwood; moderate natural luster that turns yellowish-amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $7.00 per board foot for standard FAS grade lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, approximately 1-5 years old based on fresh saw marks and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, butcher blocks, workbench tops, musical instruments, and bowling alley lanes.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging due to its high density and hardness; prone to burning when routed or cut if feed rates are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though staining can sometimes appear blotchy.
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear finishes like water-based or oil-based polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac very well. Pre-stain conditioner is recommended if applying an even stain.
Notable Features
High density, exceptional shock resistance, and fine uniform texture without distinct odor.
