Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. This sample shows subtle wavy figure and cathedral patterns in the flat-sawn face, with small areas of quilted or blistered figure near the bottom left.
Color Description
Very light cream to off-white sapwood (which is the primary part used). Heartwood is usually a darker reddish brown. It has a high natural luster and tends to amber slightly or turn gold with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if not kept dry or treated.
Common Uses
Flooring (especially basketball courts and bowling alleys), cabinetry, furniture, kitchenware (cutting boards), musical instruments, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional location.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly processed lumber, likely kiln-dried and planed recently. Shows minimal oxidation or patina, indicating it is new stock (less than 1-2 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
Good overall; works well with both hand and machine tools, though its high density can lead to burning with dull blades or high router speeds. Excellent for turning and finishes very smoothly.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive scent. Known for its high resistance to abrasion. It is a diffuse-porous wood with very small pores, giving it a uniform, smooth surface.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes are recommended to maintain the white color; oils like tung or linseed will yellow the wood significantly. Sanding to higher grits (220+) is necessary for a glass-like finish.
Identification Confidence
High. The creamy white color, tight diffuse-porous grain structure, and subtle figuring are classic diagnostic features of North American Sugar Maple.