Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture; this sample exhibits bird's eye figure (small localized swirls/indentations) and some wavy/curly figure toward the top edge.
Color Description
Heartwood is fair to light reddish-brown; sapwood is creamy white with a golden hue. The wood typically yellows or ambers slightly over time due to UV exposure. High natural luster.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; poor resistance to rot and insect attack; restricted to indoor applications.
Common Uses
Flooring, cabinetry, fine furniture, musical instruments, bowling alleys, cutting boards, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot (Premium for the bird's eye figure; standard maple is significantly cheaper).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on light oxidation and lack of significant patina.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainably managed; FSC certification commonly available.
Workability
Fairly easy to work, though high density and figured grain can cause burning with high-speed cutters or surface tear-out during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive bird's eye figure caused by stunted growth or bud development; lacks a characteristic scent; high resistance to abrasion making it excellent for high-traffic flooring.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes to maintain the white color, or shellac/oil-based finishes to pop the figured grain and chatoyance. Sanding up to high grits (320+) is recommended to minimize blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy color, tight grain, fine texture, and characteristic bird's eye figure are classic diagnostic markers for Acer saccharum.