Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America (United States and Canada).
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if exposed to moisture, though highly resistant to physical abrasion.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy face grain with fine, diffuse-porous texture; displays subtle cathedral arch patterns and faint curly or rippled figure across board faces.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-tan sapwood with subtle honey-yellow undertones; clear topcoat shows typical yellowing/ambering from age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if exposed to moisture, though highly resistant to physical abrasion.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (select grade lumber); installed tongue-and-groove flooring ranges from $7.00 - $12.00 per sq ft.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 30 to 60+ years old based on narrow-plank flooring style, seam gapping, surface scratches, and slight ambering of the polyurethane or varnish clear finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES Appendices or IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available with FSC certification and abundant in sustainably managed North American forests.
Common Uses
Residential and commercial flooring, bowling alleys, butcher blocks, fine cabinetry, furniture, millwork, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America (United States and Canada).
Workability
Fairly easy to machine, though high density can dull cutters and cause burning if feed rates are too slow; turns, glues, and sands well.
Finish Recommendations
Sands smoothly; accepts clear solvent-borne or waterborne polyurethane, film-building lacquers, or penetrating oils well. Pre-stain conditioner recommended if dark staining is desired due to potential blotching.
Notable Features
High abrasion resistance, diffuse-porous structure with fine pores, low scent when dry, and a very dense, heavy weight.
