Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America, primarily eastern Canada and northeastern United States.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture, best suited for interior applications.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral patterns mixed with straight grain, fine-textured, subtle wavy figure and minor bird's-eye/burl inclusions visible near the edges.
Color & Appearance
Predominantly pale creamy-white to light yellowish-tan sapwood with subtle reddish-brown heartwood streaks. Low to medium luster; tends to age to a warm golden amber under light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture, best suited for interior applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $10.00 per board foot (depending on grade, width, and figure clarity).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or surfaced lumber (under 1 year since surfacing), freshly planed with bright, un-oxidized sapwood surfaces.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widespread, highly sustainable, not listed on CITES, widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, fine furniture, butcher blocks, cutting boards, flooring, sports courts, turned objects, veneer, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America, primarily eastern Canada and northeastern United States.
Workability
Fairly good with power tools, though high density can dull cutters quickly and burn if feed rate is too slow; glues, turns, and sands extremely well.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain conditioner is recommended if staining; takes clear film finishes like water-based or oil-based polyurethane, lacquer, shellac, and natural oils exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Closed, diffuse-porous grain structure giving an exceptionally smooth surface finish; high abrasion resistance; non-toxic and food-safe.
