Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed and straight grain with a fine, even texture. The sample displays a flat-sawn cathedral-like pattern with a very smooth, uniform surface characteristic of the Acer genus.
Color Description
Creamy off-white to light reddish-brown. The sample shows the characteristic sapwood of Hard Maple which is preferred for its pale, clean appearance. It has a low to medium natural luster and tends to amber/yellow over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to high moisture.
Common Uses
Flooring (especially basketball courts and bowling alleys), cabinetry, furniture, butcher blocks, musical instruments (piano actions, guitar necks), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/recently processed. The lack of deep oxidation, minimal surface patina, and crisp machine marks suggest the sample is likely less than 5-10 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with high-speed cutters (like router bits). It turns, glues, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its high abrasion resistance and sweet scent when being machined. It is an edible-safe wood often used for food preparation surfaces.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes are recommended to preserve the white color; oil-based finishes will immediately add a yellow/amber tint. Pre-conditioning is recommended if staining to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive creamy color, tight closed-pore structure, and subtle grain lines are classic hallmarks of Sugar Maple sapwood.