Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain but can be wavy; closed, uniform texture. Shows circular growth rings and light cathedral patterns typical of flat-sawn boards.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish brown heartwood; sapwood is usually preferred and is an off-white color. Luster is medium-high. Tends to yellow or golden with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; low resistance to rot and insect attack. Best for indoor applications only.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, cutting boards, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced within the last 1-2 years based on lack of significant oxidation and visible sanding/planer marks.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Good overall but high density can cause burning with high-speed cutters. Glues, turns, and finishes well. Can be difficult to stain evenly due to tight grain; blotching is common.
Notable Features
Can cause allergic reactions (sensitizer); high resistance to abrasion; characteristic faint, sweet odor when being worked. Known for producing maple syrup.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the white color; linseed or tung oil will enhance grain but yellow the wood. Sanding to high grits (220+) is necessary.
Identification Confidence
High. Visual grain tight-pore structure, light cream color, and distinct growth ring patterns are characteristic of North American Hard Maple.