Sugar Maple (likely)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight, but can be wavy or curly. The end grain shows diffuse-porous structure with very small, numerous pores.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown; sapwood is a creamy white to off-white, typically becoming a golden yellow with age. High luster when finished.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (piano blocks), cutting boards, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on figure and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut (green wood). Growth rings suggest a branch or small sapling approximately 8-12 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with high-speed cutters. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive odor. Known for high abrasion resistance. Contains sugar-rich sap in living trees. Fine, even texture.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on poly, lacquer, or shellac to preserve light color. Water-based finishes prevent yellowing better than oil-based ones.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The creamy color, tight diffuse-porous end grain, and thin bark are characteristic of the Acer genus, specifically Sugar Maple.